ABSTRACT

The pattern of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) uptake by various tissues, as indicated by the distribution and toxicity studies, undoubtedly points to removal of material into the major sites of reticuloendothelial cells in the body. It may be concluded that uptake of PVP into reticuloendothelial cells in the body is most probably by a low affinity pinocytic mechanism. However, in situations in which phagocytosis is already active the PVP will be able to enter the cells by this mechanism also. Because PVP may be sequestered into the reticuloendothelial cells of the body, concern has been expressed regarding the effect this may have on the functioning of such tissues. Three aspects of this have come under scrutiny, mainly in relation to possible impairment of the homeostatic defense mechanisms of the body: direct effect of PVP on the reticuloendothelial system; PVP shock reactions; and immunological effects of PVP.