[Characteristics of immunologic homeostasis in the late period after reconstructive operations on the heart valves].

The immune status, i.e. T and B lymphocytes and their populations, was assessed after heart valve replacement or reconstruction in 70 patients with acquired heart defects. In 30%, the immune status was found to be normal which corresponded to inactive rheumatic process in these patients; 40% showed activated immunity manifested by increased T-active, T-total, T-helper, and T-suppressor numbers compared to the first group, which corresponded to activation of a rheumatic process in these patients. The rest 30% patients showed suppressed immunity, i.e. diminished subpopulations of T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes. These changes were detected in patients with circulatory insufficiency and progressive septic endocarditis. This allows for a conclusion that determination of the status of immunity and its correction are essential for cardiac surgery patients.