Delineation of the spleen by a combination of proliposomes with water-soluble contrast media: an experimental study using computed tomography.

Numerous methods for delineating the splenic pulp, including dynamic computed tomography scanning, either are unreliable or have other shortcomings. A method is described for enhancing the spleen using aqueous contrast media in conjunction with proliposomes. While liposomal carrier systems have previously been used for diagnostic purposes, proliposomes circumvent many of the problems associated with the manufacture and handling of liposomes. This enhancement is based on the selective uptake of particulate material by the reticuloendothelial system. While others, by using washed liposomal suspensions, have apparently obtained higher degrees of splenic contrast enhancement, the present study nevertheless shows that significant levels of enhancement are obtainable by a combination of intra- and extraliposomal contrast media.