C5a mediates peripheral blood neutrophil dysfunction in critically ill patients.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Critically ill patients are highly susceptible to hospital-acquired infection. Neutrophil function in critical illness remains poorly understood.

Objectives

To characterize and define mechanisms of peripheral blood neutrophil (PBN) dysfunction in critically ill patients. To determine whether the inflamed lung contributes additional phagocytic impairment.

Methods

Prospective collection of blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from patients with suspected ventilator-associated pneumonia and from age- and sex-matched volunteers; laboratory analysis of neutrophil functions.

Measurements and main results

Seventy-two patients and 21 volunteers were included. Phagocytic capacity of PBNs was 36% lower in patients than in volunteers (P < 0.0001). From several

SUBMITTER: Conway Morris A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2948533 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature