Circulating phospholipids in interstitial inflammatory fluid of the rabbit.

Using a sponge implantation model in the rabbit, we have examined the distribution and fatty acid composition of extravascular phospholipids in interstitial inflammatory fluid. Inflammatory fluid contained less phosphatidylserine and -inositol and a complete absence of phosphatidylethanolamine as compared to autologous plasma. Inflammatory fluid phospholipids contained an increased amount of oleic acid, decreased linoleic acid, and undetectable levels of arachidonic acid, despite unaltered levels of these fatty acids in other extravascular lipid classes as compared to plasma. Potential metabolic consequences of these findings are discussed.