Erythrocyte concentrations of the lithium ion: Clinical correlates and mechanisms of action

A. Frazer, J. Mendels, D. Brunswick, J. London, M. Pring, T. A. Ramsey, J. Rybakowski

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

36 Scopus citations

Abstract

When lithium carbonate is administered to individuals, there is considerable intersubject variation in the extent of accumulation of Li+ by erythrocytes. The primary reason for this is differences in the activity of a Li+-Na+ counterflow system, which, under clinical conditions, removes Li+ from the cell. It appears that some bipolar patients accumulate more Li+ in their red cells than either unipolar depressives or normal controls. The precise clinical characteristics of the bipolar patients who accumulate relatively large amounts of erythrocyte Li+ need to be clarified in future research. Finally, the measurement of red cell concentrations of Li+ in addition to the usual plasma measurement, can be used as an indicator of patient compliance.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1065-1069
Number of pages5
JournalUnknown Journal
Volume135
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 1978
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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