Modeling transient exchange in mesentery.

In this paper, a mathematical model of interstitial transport and microvascular exchange within a rigid mesenteric tissue segment is employed to simulate the transient exchange of fluid and plasma proteins following two systemic disturbances: hypoproteinemia and venous congestion. In each case, the model system behavior is studied as a function of interstitial plasma protein transport mechanisms and mesothelial transport properties. Plasma protein washout was generally predicted in cases of hypoproteinemia. However, following venous congestion, the transient change in interstitial plasma protein content also depended on the relative sieving properties of the filtering and draining boundaries. When these boundaries display similar sieving characteristics, the interstitial plasma protein content increases following the disturbance. Such behavior may have some bearing on transient exchange in the hepatic microcirculation during venous congestion.