[Rheological properties of erythrocyte suspensions in acute myocardial infarct in the physiological temperature...

A study was made over time of the relationships between the viscosity of red cell suspensions and temperature [eta (T)] in normal subjects and patients with acute myocardial infarction. In normal subjects, the curves eta (T) have a bend within the temperature range 37-40 degrees C, which apparently reflects the phasic transition. In patients with myocardial infarction, the bend on the curve eta (T) either disappears or is undemonstrable during the acute period within the temperature range indicated. During transition to the subacute period (after 7-10 days), the bend on the curves reappears and then only variation of its pattern follows. The changes seen in the viscosities of red cell suspensions or red cell "shades" in the phasic transition area might be used for defining the stages, the time course, and prognosis of myocardial infarction.