The influence of fentanyl and alfentanil on functions of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes in vitro

Abstract

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) play an important part in protecting against invading bacteria. It is known that some anaesthetics may impair PMNL functions, thus possibly promoting infection. We investigated the effect of fentanyl and alfentanil on superoxide anion production, hydrogen peroxide generation, and activity of released myeloperoxidase in vitro. However, the two opioids did not have any significant influence on the tested PMNL functions.