Neutrophil oxygen free radical production proportionates with the degree of myocardial ischemia.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the production of oxygen free radicals by chemiluminescence and to assess leukocyte aggregation, in patients with acute myocardial infarction and angina pectoris, and to compare these to creatine kinase-MB levels.


METHODS
Prospective study with serial estimation at presentation and 72 h later.


METHODS
Referral, tertiary care hospital.


METHODS
Group 1, acute myocardial infarction (n = 18); group 2, stable angina pectoris (n = 8); and age-and sex-matched normal healthy persons (n = 12). All patients included had pain of less than 24 h duration with typical electrocardiographic and laboratory abnormalities. Patients or controls who had any inflammatory disease in the preceding two weeks or who were on anti-inflammatory drugs, calcium channel or beta-adrenoceptor blockers, were excluded.


METHODS
Venous blood samples taken at presentation and 72 h later were analyzed for creatine kinase-MB using a standard kit, neutrophilic chemiluminescence and leukocyte aggregation.


RESULTS
In group 1 there were significant rises in both creatine kinase-MB and chemiluminescence, which subsequently regressed (P less than 0.02). There was, however, no statistical correlation between the two. The qualitative pattern of the rise and fall of chemiluminescence was similar in group 2. Changes in leukergy in both groups were not significant.


CONCLUSIONS
Oxygen free radical generation occurs early in myocardial ischemia with regression by 72 h. Neutrophilic chemiluminescence may provide an alternative method for assessment of myocardial ischemia.
Wahi
S
S
Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Kaul
N
N
Ganguly
N K
NK
Varma
S
S
Sharma
B K
BK
Wahi
P L
PL
D002449:Cell Aggregation; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000097:blood / Q000378:metabolism*; D003402:Creatine Kinase / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D005609:Free Radicals; D006801:Humans; D007527:Isoenzymes; D008163:Luminescent Measurements; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009504:Neutrophils / Q000378:metabolism*; D010100:Oxygen / Q000097:blood*; D010101:Oxygen Consumption
D005609:Free Radicals; D007527:Isoenzymes; D003402:Creatine Kinase; D010100:Oxygen