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Postpericardiotomy syndrome in adults: incidence, autoimmunity and virology

M A Engle, W A Gay, J McCabe

    Circulation
    |August 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Postpericardiotomy syndrome (PPS) affects 17.6% of adults, with incidence decreasing with age. This autoimmune condition may be triggered by viral illness, as indicated by heart-reactive and antiviral antibodies.

    Area of Science:

    • Immunology
    • Virology
    • Cardiology

    Background:

    • Postpericardiotomy syndrome (PPS) is a known complication following cardiac surgery.
    • Previous studies focused on pediatric populations, necessitating investigation in adults.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the immunologic and virologic aspects of PPS in an adult population.
    • To determine the incidence and risk factors associated with PPS in adults.

    Main Methods:

    • A cohort of 142 adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery was studied.
    • Incidence of PPS was recorded and analyzed based on age groups.
    • Serologic testing was performed to detect heart-reactive and antiviral antibodies.

    Main Results:

    • The incidence of PPS in adults was 17.6%, lower than the 27.8% observed in children.
    • PPS incidence decreased with increasing age, with the lowest rates in patients aged 70 and older.
    • High titers of heart-reactive antibody were found in all PPS patients, and 68% showed a rise in antiviral antibodies.

    Conclusions:

    • PPS in adults appears to be an autoimmune phenomenon.
    • Viral illness may act as a trigger for the development of PPS in adults.
    • Age is a significant factor influencing PPS incidence in the adult population.

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