LR8 Expression in fibroblasts of healthy and fibrotic human tissues.

LR8 gene was first reported in a subpopulation of cultured human lung fibroblasts expressing the receptor for C1q-globular domain, and it was not detectable in cultured endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. LR8 mRNA levels were higher in fibrotic lungs. In this study we assessed LR8 production in human tissues and determined if the distribution of fibroblasts producing LR8 is affected in fibrosis. Normal and fibrotic tissue sections from human liver, lung and kidneys were immunostained with antibodies to LR8 and examined for the presence of fibroblasts staining positively and negatively. The cells were also examined for co-expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), a marker for myofibroblasts. The results showed that LR8 was expressed by fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, bile duct cells, pulmonary alveolar cells and distal and proximal kidney tubule cells. Connective tissues of normal and fibrotic tissues contained fibroblasts staining positively and negatively with anti- LR8 antibody. The number of LR8-positive cells was higher in fibrotic tissues, but differences were not statistically significant. Fibroblasts producing both LR8 and SMA were present in higher numbers in fibrotic tissues as compared to normal tissues and the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). Our results show that fibroblast subtypes differing in LR8 expression are present in human tissues, and that in fibrotic tissues cells co-expressing LR8 and SMA are present. Our results indicate that LR8 expressing cells may participate in the early stages of fibrotic diseases and that fibroblasts expressing LR8, not LR8 negative cells, have potential to become myofibroblasts in fibrotic tissues.

Fasciotomy for chronic compartment syndrome in the lower limb.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine the success of fasciotomy of lower limb compartments with elevated intra-compartment pressure. METHODS: The present report is a retrospective cohort study at No. 3 Combat Support Hospital involving a survey and case note review of patients who had undergone fasciotomy for compartment syndrome at least 6 months earlier (December 1997-December 2000). RESULTS: Fourteen patients met the inclusion criteria. Eleven reported success with complete resolution of symptoms and return to military fitness levels. Two reported no change and significant residual symptoms. One reported worse symptoms and one required re-operation with a successful result. CONCLUSION: Surgical decompression is the accepted treatment of compartment syndrome as proven by pressure manometry, after failure of conservative treatment.