[Effect of pancuronium bromide on the adherence of polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes in vitro].

Infection is still an important problem following surgery. Polymorphonuclear neutrophil granulocytes (PMN) play a vital role in host defenses against invading bacteria; thus, adverse effects on PMN caused by anesthetic agents are of general interest. In this study, we examined the influence of pancuronium bromide on PMN adherence in vitro. Heparinized venous blood samples were obtained from 18 healthy male adult donors. Each specimen was divided. One part was used to determine the adherence of untreated PMN, while pancuronium bromide was added to the other. Two concentrations (1.3 or 0.5 micrograms relaxant/ml blood) were tested. PMN adherence was studied using nylon fiber columns as described by MacGregor et al. Both concentrations of pancuronium bromide caused an inhibition of adherence, which was significant in the case of the higher dosage (p less than 0.05). There is a direct correlation between the intensity of PMN adherence and the extent of granulocyte delivery to sites of inflammation. Therefore, it seems possible that clinical concentrations of pancuronium bromide may be able to increase the risk of developing bacterial infections. Further studies concerning this problem should be conducted.