A simple BSP liver function test using¹³¹I BSP

Abstract

The results obtained from this simplified (25 min value of less than 5% 131 I BSP (bromsulphthalein) retention) test correlated well (r=0.941) with those of the conventional 45 min BSP retention test. The conventional method, although popular, is not pleasant to the patients and not without danger; the test gives only one value at 45 min which has limited discrimination and sensitivity. The merits of this simple test using 131 I BSP are safety and convenience to the patients. No blood drawing is needed. Additional information apart from plasma retention at any minute includes the corresponding hepatic uptake and bile excretion. The availability of 131 I BSP which can be labeled in any laboratory at any time, the smaller amount of BSP and the small volume of 131 I BSP injected, the tracer activity of the labeling product, the low cost and practically the same amount of time consumed but with much less effort on the part of physicians and patients are very rewarding and attractive. The test can be applied even in the presence of jaundice because instead of color it measures activity. The method can be put into routine clinical practice in the hospital. This simple test may be done in the same session as scanning of the liver.