Characterization of lymphocyte subpopulations and cardiovascular markers in pericardial fluid of cardiac surgery patients.

Background: Composition of pericardial fluid (PF) may reveal immunological processes influencing oxidative stress and microcirculation of different tissues of the heart and may play a role in the course of myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, and aortic stenosis.

Patients And Methods: We investigated lymphocyte populations, cardiovascular markers and immunoglobulin composition in PF and blood samples of patients undergoing CABG operation and compared them to those who had aortic valve surgery.

Results: The amount of CD8 + T, NK, memoT and activated T-cytotoxic cells were elevated in PF compared to blood, but naiveT and activated T-helper cell ratio were lower in PF.