Liposomes loaded with contrast material for image enhancement in computed tomography. Work in progress.

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Abstract
Large unilamellar phospholipid vesicles were prepared and loaded with various radiographic contrast media. Body CT [computed tomography] following in vivo administration of these vesicles in the rat demonstrated opacification of organs associated with the reticuloendothelial system. Image enhancement in the spleen and liver was dose dependent and was linearly related within the dose range investigated. Contrast enhancement was observed within 5 min of i.v. administration, was maximal 60 min after injection and declined during the 2nd h. Clearance of the radiographic contrast material was complete within 24 h. Diffuse splenic lymphoma following i.p. or intrasplenic injection of lymphoma cells and solitary lymphoma nodules following intrahepatic injection were readily detected as nonenhanced areas following injection of liposomes.