Comparative Study of the Chemiluminescence Produced by the Activated Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes in Physiological and Various Pathological Conditions

Abstract

The chemiluminescent emission released by activated polymorphonuclear leukocytes has been known for a long time, but its clinical use is still scarce. We suggest the as a quantitative measurement of chemiluminescence, the stimulatmy index (ratio of the chemiluminescence value of stimulated polymorphonuclear leukocytes to non-stimulated leukocytes) was obtained for the same individual. The results obtained by a standardized, simplified technique for more than 2000 individuals (healthy persons such as medical personnel, athletes, soldier, and patients suffering from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and pneumoconiosis) explain the still restricted use of chemiluminescence. There was a wide range of individual variations and an overlap of normal physiological and pathological values. A significant statistical difference was obtained only for patients in the acute phase of the disease. The chemiluminescence measurement of phagocytic activity of leukocytes is strongly influenced by age, diet, presence of stress, and chronic inflammations.