Effect of Cortisone and ACTH During Sensitization on Eosinophils and Anaphylaxis in Guinea Pigs

Abstract

Two series of 36 and 24 guinea pigs were studied. Cortisone was given to 1/3 of the animals, ACTH to 1/3 and the remaining 1/3 served as controls. Admn. of the hormones, in moderate or large doses, was started before giving the sensitizing injns. of egg white, and was continued while they were being given and for varying periods after their completion. No treatment had any effect on the severity of anaphylactic reactions induced by the subsequent intraven. injn. of the antigen. Used in adequate amts., both hormones produced pronounced and sustained reductions in the number of circulating eosinophils in the blood of male and non-pregnant female guinea pigs.