Retention in Glass Bead Columns as a Measure of Leucocyte Adhesiveness

Abstract

Erythrocyte [human] sedimentation significantly influenced test results when leukocyte retention in glass bead columns was used as a measure of leukocyte adhesiveness. In blood with elevated ESR [erythrocyte sedimentation rate], this influence was especially evident. Erythrocyte sedimentation highly increased leukocyte retention in vertical columns with a downward flow; in slightly tilted columns with an upward flow, the retention was reduced. The error in measurements caused by erythrocyte sedimentation could be corrected by means of the hematocrit values in samples and eluates. Correction was better for results obtained with slightly elevated than with vertical columns. The granulocyte retention rates increased with increasing sample size. Lymphocyte retention remained constant.