Studies on Lymphocytes. [Part] 1. Lymphopenia Produced by Prolonged Extracorporeal Irradiation of Circulating Blood

A method for extracorporeal irradiation of the circulating blood is described. Extracorporeal irradiation of the blood will produce a lymphopenia promptly which persists for weeks. Heparin in high doses in the calf produces a lymphocytosis and neutrophilic leukocytosis. (auth) Red cell sensitization by either agglutinating or incomplete antibodies was detected with an I/sup 131/ labeled rabbit antihuman globulin serum (RAG). Non-specific absorption of RAG by red cells was reduced to a minimum by the addition of 6% bovine albumin. The reactions between RAG and the sensitized erythrocytes were typical of antigen- antibody reactions and the sensitivity of the test was found to be greater than the standard Coombs test. Quantitative studies of the degree of erythrocyte sensitization by isoimmune or autoimmune antibodies were possible with this technic. (auth