Abstract
A study of granulocyte function in myeloblastic leukaemia is reported. Function was assessed by the ability of peripheral blood granulocytes to ingest and kill Candida albicans in bitro. Depressed cidal activity was observed in 11 patients with smouldering leukaemia and in 19 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia. Cidal activity was lowest in the untreated acute disease; this improved during cytoreduction therapy and was maintained when remission occurred. Leukaemic plasma depressed the function of control granulocytes; the possible role of a plasma "factor" is discussed.
Highlights
Summary.-A study of granulocyte function in myeloblastic leukaemia is reported
THE NATURAL history of acute leukaemia is characterized by the development of frequent and severe infections, and infection is a major cause of death (Hersch et al, 1965)
Autologous plasma and Hanks' balanced salt solution (HBSS) were placed in sterile containers and a suspension of Candida albicans added to provide a neutrophil : Candida ratio of 1 : 1. Each estimation was performed with control leucocytes and a blank tube containing plasma HBSS and Candida albicans, but no leucocytes
Summary
Summary.-A study of granulocyte function in myeloblastic leukaemia is reported. Function was assessed by the ability of peripheral blood granulocytes to ingest and kill Candida albicans in vitro. Depressed cidal activity was observed in 11 patients with smouldering leukaemia and in 19 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia. Cidal activity was lowest in the untreated acute disease; this improved during cytoreduction therapy and was maintained when remission occurred. Leukaemic plasma depressed the function of control granulocytes; the possible role of a plasma " factor " is discussed. Hirschen berg (1939) was the first to report impaired phagocytosis in acute leukaemia, an observation that has since been confirmed by many workers. The purpose of this study was to examine granulocyte function in myeloblastic leukaemia at various stages of the disease.
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