We evaluated the activation of oxygen metabolism in neutrophils in peripheral blood in patients with unstable angina pectoris using unstimulated and stimulated nitroblue tetrazolium reduction test (NBT). We studied a group of 43 people at the age ranging from 34 to 74 years. The blood for investigation was obtained during the first five hours from the onset of anginal pain. The number of leukocytes in patients with unstable angina pectoris increased to the average of 9.25 G/L and it was statistically significantly higher when compared with control group x=6.34. The absolute number of neutrophils in the group of patients was 6.47 G/L on the average and it was statistically significantly higher than in control group. In the unstimulated NBT, mean percentage of NBT positive cells was 29 and it was statistically significantly higher than in control group. In the stimulated NBT, mean percentage of NBT positive cells was 36 and it was statistically significantly lower than in control group x=49. Neutrophils are the main source of oxygen derived free radicals. They contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of unstable angina pectoris.

Keywords: NBT, Neutrophils, oxygen metabolites, Angina Pectoris