Immune-complex disease in guinea pig lungs: I. Elicitation by aerosol challenge, suppression with cobra venom factor, and passive transfer with serum

Abstract

Immune-complex disease was elicited in the lungs of ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs following an aerosol challenge with specific antigen. An acute inflammatory reaction, characterized by peribronchial polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration, edema, and hemorrhage, was observed 2 hr following aerosol challenge. This focal reaction developed into a diffuse reaction within 6 to 12 hr postchallenge. By 24 hr postchallenge, the acute inflammatory process had begun to resolve. The active disease was suppressed with cobra venom factor and was transferred to normal guinea pigs with immune serum.