Complement Activation during Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Abstract

To the Editor: "Post-pump syndrome" is a well-recognized problem in patients who have undergone cardiopulmonary bypass. Both the capillary-membrane instability and the pulmonary edema observed in this syndrome are similar to those seen in other clinical states associated with diffuse complement activation. Dr. Chenoweth and his colleagues have not only confirmed complement activation in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass, but also have clearly demonstrated the presence of C3a and C5a (February 26 issue).¹ Although the sources of generation of these anaphylatoxins have yet to be determined, Chenoweth et al. have established nylon-mesh liners and vigorous bubble oxygenation as two major sites . . .