Influence of Perflubron Emulsion Particle Size on Blood Half-Life and Febrile Response in Rats

Abstract

Perfluorochemical (PFC) emulsions are particulate in nature and, as such, can cause delayed febrile reactions when injected intravenously. This study investigated the influence of emulsion particle size on intravascular retention and on body temperature changes in unrestrained conscious rats. Concentrated (60% to 90% w/v) emulsions based on perflubron (perfluorooctyl bromide [PFOB]) with mean particle sizes ranging from 0.05 μm to 0.63 μm were tested. Rats were fitted with a chronic jugular catheter and an abdominal body temperature telemetry unit. Fully recovered, conscious rats were monitored for 24 hours after infusion (dose = 2.7 g PFC/kg). Emulsion blood half-life (T¹/₂) was determined from blood perflubron levels measured by gas chromatography. Emulsions with a particle size of 0.2-0.3 μm caused fevers (6 to 8 hour duration) which peaked at 1-1.5°C above normal (∼ 37.5°C). Fevers could be blocked by i.v. treatment with either cyclooxygenase inhibitors (ibuprofen) or corticosteroids (dexamethasone). Both intensity and duration of the temperature response, quantified by area under the temperature curve, was decreased significantly for emulsions with a particle size ± 0.12 μm. Blood T¹/₂ varied inversely with particle size, and was 3 to 4 fold longer for emulsions with a mean particle size ± 0.2 μm. Thus, smaller emulsion particles more effectively evaded the reticuloendothelial system, which resulted in longer intravascular retention, less macrophage activity, and reduced febrile responses.