Obesity, plasma lipids and polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte functions.

20 obese subjects were compared with 20 controls with normal weight regarding their polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte functions, and plasma lipids. The obese subjects showed a significantly decreased PMN bactericidal capacity, and increased PMN adherence. No differences were found in their mean PMN chemotaxis and opsonic capacity of plasma. The values of plasma triglycerides and free fatty acids were higher in the obese, while plasma cholesterol and phospholipids corresponded to the control values. The changes in granulocyte function did not correlate significantly to plasma lipid levels or to body weight and Broca's index in either group. --It is concluded that changes in granulocyte function occur in obesity, but are not related to plasma lipids or degree of overweight.