The radioactive (I131 tagged) rose bengal uptake-excretion test for liver function using external gamma-ray scintillation counting techniques.

Abstract Laboratory studies in rabbits indicate the potential clinical applicability, high sensitivity, and relative safety of the radioactive rose bengal liver uptake-excretion test for determining the presence of liver and biliary tract diseases. The techniques employed in rabbits and the modification required for application in clinical medicine are described. Preliminary clinical results demonstrate that patients with some of the common diseases of the liver have fairly typical uptake-excretion patterns which are readily distinguishable from those recorded in normal individuals. Need for additional clinical investigation is stressed, and some possible advantages from further modifications in technical procedures are suggested.