Transfusion of Leukocytes and Products of Disintegrated Leukocytes. *

Abstract

Summary and Conclusions

1. Leukocytes were obtained in large numbers by introduction of large amounts of physiologic salt solution into the peritoneal cavity of rabbits.

2. Intravenous administration of these cells to the same or different animals was followed by very rapidly developing and severe leukopenia. A subsequent leukocytosis developed in the majority of rabbits after several hours.

3. Disintegrated leukocytes, or aqueous extract of disintegrated leukocytes produced similar results.

4. Preliminary data indicate that the leukocytes stick in the capillaries of the lung. Ether extraction of disintegrated leukocytes does not cause loss of activity but heating reduces activity.

5. These experiments indicate that unsatisfactory preservation of leukocytes in stored blood is not the reason for failure to raise leukocyte counts with transfusions, but that white blood cells contain a substance (or substances) which is capable of producing leukopenia.