Haemodynamic side effects of antilymphocyte serum

Haemodynamic side effects of antilymphocyte serum (ALS) have been studied in six dogs treated with equine anti-dog ALS. All animals responded with a severe but transient reduction of cardiac output and, in most cases, a drop in aortic pressure. This effect is best explained by a direct negative inotropic action followed by secondary vasoconstriction. An indirect effect of ALS by release of cardiotoxic substances from damaged blood cells seems to be a more probable explanation than a direct action of ALS on cardiac cell membranes.