Phagocytosis Inhibition Test in Infection Hypersensitivity.

Abstract

Phagocytlc action of normal polymorphonuclear leukocytes is inhibited by serum from guinea pigs sensitized to streptococci or pneumococci plus a filtrate of the specific organism. Only serum from animals showing a delayed type skin reaction to the specific filtrate will cause this inhibition. The reaction is specific and is similar to leukocytolysis and to studies of cell damage in tissue culture in that it is not readily demonstrated in hypersensitivity to egg albumin. It is a rapid test and useful for the in vitro evaluation of infection hypersensitivity.