Effect of four i.v. induction agents on T-lymphocyte proliferations to PHA in vitro.

Anaesthetic agents are believed to have an adverse effect on human immunity. We have studied the effects of four i.v. induction agents, thiopentone, methohexitone, etomidate and propofol, on T-lymphocyte proliferations to phytohaemagglutinin in vitro. We found that at plasma concentrations similar to those obtained after induction doses, all drugs, with the exception of propofol, caused depression of T-lymphocyte function.