Induction of hepatitis in adult Syrian hamster by H-1 virus.

The induction of hepatitis in adult hamster by H-1 virus was documented by demonstrating an increase in serum SGOT and SGPT at 3-9 wk postinoculation. The electrophoresis pattern of LDH isoenzymes showed a marked increase in the liver fraction (fraction 5) indicating liver damage in infected hamsters. The pathology displayed in diseased livers revealed a focal degeneration of hepatic cells although infiltration of white cells was not observed. H-1 virus is apparently capable of producing hepatitis (without symptoms) in adult hamsters as well as cause hepatitis and severe cerebral disease in newborn hamsters.