Transendothelial migration of leukocytes after methylene blue: Effect on adhesion molecules

Abstract

Introduction: Vasodilatory shock after cardiac surgery is a complication of cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass associated with high mortality, especially if refractory to conventional vasoconstrictor treatment. Methylene blue has been successfully used in the management of this entity. Experimental data suggest an anti-inflammatory effect of methylene blue (MB). Our aim was to investigate the effect of MB on transendothelial migration of lymphocytes and leukocytes and on the expression of adhesion molecules upon endothelial cells in a model of acute inflammation.