Influence of Spleen on Leucocyte Count of the Albino Rat

Abstract

Summary

It is evident from the work described and the charts shown that in the Bartoiiella-free albino rat: 1. Following splenectomy, the total leucocyte count increases to 3 to 4 times normal. 2. This increase is due to a neutrophilia of a myeloid type which is more intense than that following other trauma. 3. Following a comparable surgical procedure, partial hysterectomy, the total leucocyte count increases to 1 ½ to 2 times normal. 4. This increase is due to a weak neutrophilia of a type that is usually found following surgical trauma. 5. Following spleen transplantation into a spleen-possessing rat, there appear to be no significant changes. 6. Following splenectomy, there is a lesser leucocytosis of a neutrophilic nature in the spleen transplant recipients than in the muscle transplant controls. 7. This leucocytosis approaches normal with greater rapidity in the spleen transplant recipients than in the controls. 8. Following removal of the spleen transplants, the blood picture resembles that following splenectomy, though in milder fashion. 9. Following removal of the muscle transplant sites, the blood picture indicates mild trauma. 10. Spleen homiotransplants may be 88% successful.

Conclusions. It is concluded that in the Bartoiiella-free albino rat: 1. Splenectomy induces greater neutrophilic leucocytosis than does a comparable surgical trauma, due to the consequent absence of an inhibitory influence on leucocyte production. 2. The normal spleen, as one of its functions, exerts an inhibitory influence on the leucopoietic centers, thus balancing the activity of leucopoietic-stimulating centers. 3. Spleen transplants function similarly to normal spleen tissue in controlling leucocyte production or release. 4. This inhibitory influence of the spleen on leucocyte formation or release may be considered as possibly an endocrine activity.