Further Observations on the Relationship between the Thyroid Gland and the Anaphylactoid Reaction in Rats

Abstract

The anaphylactoid reaction caused by dextran and egg-white in rats was quantitated by 3 different methods. This reaction and the tissue content in histamine and in 5-hydroxytryptamine are markedly increased in rats treated with thryroxine or tri-iodothyronine. Glucocorticoids have a depressing effect on both the normal and hyperthyroid animals. Thyroidectomy or treatment with antithyroid drug (methyl-thiouracil) depresses, adrenalectomy increases the anaphylactoid reaction. The interplay of the endocrinal functions in this reaction is discussed on the basis of these and related data.