SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE LEUKOCYTE COUNT IN EPILEPSY

Abstract

The leukocyte count in epilepsy has been discussed by a number of authors, but their opinions on this subject, as encountered in the literature, are controversial. Spangler¹ and Wuth² stated that before the convulsion the white cell count is normal; Riebes³ described a leukocytosis occuring at this time, and Hartmann⁴ and Di Gaspero⁵ claimed that leukopenia occurs. Schultz,⁶ Itten,⁷ Zimmermann,⁸ and Gorrieri⁹ reported a lymphocytosis preceding the attack; Gorrieri⁹ also postulated eosinophilia. During the seizure, Wuth² and Goedicke¹⁰ found leukocytosis, Di Gaspero⁵ recorded leukopenia, and Zimmermann,⁸ Schultz⁶ and Rhode¹¹ asserted that there is lymphocytosis. Zimmermann⁸ and Schultz⁶ proclaimed, in addition, eosinophilia. After the paroxysm, Spangler,¹ Wuth,² Itten,⁷ Riebes,³ and Schultz⁶ observed leukocytosis, while Riebes³ likewise noted lymphocytosis, and Gorrieri,⁹ Di Gaspero⁵ and Schultz⁶