Role of phagocytic cells in host defence in relation to trauma--a brief review

Present evidence available support a relationship between phagocytic cell function and survival from various types of trauma, e.g. burn, traumatic shock, and haemorrhage. Both polymorphonuclear phagocytes and mononuclear phagocytes (monocytes and macrophages) participating in the body's host defence are of crucial importance in preventing post-traumatic infections by microorganisms. The role of macrophages constituting the reticuloendothelial system (RES) in relation to trauma is paid special attention in this review. Deficit in a humoral opsonic glycoprotein (alpha 2 SB glycoprotein) important for reticuloendothelial phagocytosis is described in various types of traumatic injuries, and the role of RES in relation to pulmonary insufficiency is finally summarized.