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Endothelin abnormalities in patients with pulmonary embolism
M Sofia1, S Faraone, M Alifano
1Department of Thoracic Disease, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
Chest
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Endothelin (ET) metabolism is altered in acute pulmonary embolism (PE), showing increased production and/or impaired lung handling. These findings suggest a role for ET in PE pathogenesis, requiring further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Endothelin (ET) is a peptide produced by the endothelium, regulating vascular tone.
- Dysregulation of ET is implicated in various cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate endogenous ET production and excretion during the acute phase of pulmonary embolism (PE).
- To compare ET metabolism in patients with PE, acute lung injury (ALI), and healthy volunteers (HVs).
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassay was used to measure immunoreactive ET (ir-ET) in blood and urine.
- Arterial/venous ir-ET ratio assessed pulmonary ET handling, while renal ir-ET clearance was corrected for creatinine clearance.
Main Results:
- Renal ir-ET clearance was similar across PE, ALI, and HV groups.
- The arterial/venous ir-ET ratio was significantly higher in PE patients compared to HVs, indicating altered pulmonary ET handling.
- 24-hour urine ir-ET excretion was elevated in both PE and ALI patients relative to HVs.
Conclusions:
- Acute PE is associated with abnormalities in ET metabolism, including increased synthesis and/or defective pulmonary clearance.
- The precise role of these ET alterations in the pathophysiology and treatment of PE warrants further research.