Oxidative balance in scuba divers

Underwater immersion may mimic hyperbaric conditions finally favouring some unwanted effects such as oxidative stress, which has been defined as an unbalance between pro-oxidative and antioxidant processes (1). However, although many observations suggest that inhaled oxygen under hyperbaric treatment may increase total oxidant status in humans (2), however no conclusive data are now available in apnea and self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) divers (3). The aim of this study was to evaluate globally oxidative balance in apnea and scuba divers in different immersions. Four apparently healthy professional divers, one apnea diver and three scuba divers were recruited. The athletes observed the appropriate programs of the immersion and the correct decompression time. Blood samples were collected from forearm vein before and after diving in three different immersions performed in three different days. Immediately after collecting the samples, oxidative balance was evaluated by performing on a dedicated photometer (FREE system) the Carratelli’s panel (Diacron International s. r. l., Grosseto, Italy) (4), which includes total oxidant status measurement by means of d-ROMs test (normal range 250 to 300 CARR U, where 1 CARR U is equivalent to 23.51 mol/L hydrogen peroxide) (5), serum ferric reducing activity quantification by means of BAP test (optimal value > 2200 mol/L reduced iron) (6) and serum total antioxidant barrier to hypochlorous induced oxidation by means of OXY-adsorbent test (optimal value >350 mmol HClO/L sample) (7). The results were expressed as mean ± SD. The comparison among data was performed by using the Student’s t Test. The differences were considered statistically significant for p