The role of lipid peroxidation in the genesis of vasospasm secondary to subarachnoid hemorrhage.

The aim of this study is to find out the possible trigger role of lipid peroxidation in vasospasm. Haemoglobin-free washed erythrocyte membranes (erythrocyte ghost) corresponding to 2.5 mg membrane protein was mixed with 0.5 umol NADPH 3 umol ADP, 4 umol ferrous sulphate and injected into the cisterna magna of cats to stimulate lipid peroxidation in vivo (Group 1). The second group was injected lml/kg whole blood and the control group 1 ml/kg saline. Angiographic studies revealed significant vasospasm in five cats in group 1. Severe vasospasm was seen in six cats in group 2. A significant increase in lipid peroxidation was observed in groups 1 and 2, compared to the control group. These results may suggest that free radical products may play an important role in the complex genesis of vasospasm in subarachnoid haemorrhage.