Augmentation of Nitrogen Mustard Induced Leukopenia by Cortisone. ∗

Abstract

Summary

1. Cortisone is ineffective in preventing HN₂-induced leukopenia in rabbits. On the contrary, cortisone induces a greater leukopenia as a result of increased lymphopenia. 2. Administration of cortisone to rabbits receiving L-cysteine prior to HN₂ administration results in a more severe leukopenia and neutropenia than administration of L-cysteine and HN₂ alone. 3. The combined use of cortisone and HN₂ therapeutically may induce a dangerous depression of hematopoietic tissue.