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Kupffer Cells Liver Macrophages — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPhysiology - Gastrointestinal & HepaticKupffer Cells Liver MacrophagesFRCA Primary

Which hepatic cell type acts as the resident macrophage population of the mononuclear phagocyte system?

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Correct answer: D — Kupffer cells positioned within hepatic sinusoidal blood flow

The best answer is “Kupffer cells positioned within hepatic sinusoidal blood flow”. Kupffer cells are resident macrophages situated in the hepatic sinusoids, where they clear particulate material, microorganisms and damaged cells from portal blood. Hepatocytes, stellate cells, cholangiocytes and sinusoidal endothelium have important but different synthetic, storage, ductal and vascular roles.

Reference: Royal College of Anaesthetists, Primary FRCA Syllabus 2021: https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/2026-01/Primary-FRCA-Syllabus.pdf