THE EFFECT OF REDUCED ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE ON THE LEUKOCYTE COUNT

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Abstract
Normal and splenectomized rats kept in a chamber at barometric pressures of 422-282 mm. Hg for 1-28 days regularly developed leukocytosis early (within 24 hrs.), followed by leukopenia which was persistent. There was a concomitant increase in Hb, erythro-cytes and reticulocytes. No consistent changes in the differential formulae were noted, relative neutropenia did not occur in most cxpfcs. The results in the 2 groups of animals were similar. The results in rats were in some degree confirmed in guinea pigs. The differences in the leukocyte responses to reduced atmospheric pressure, i.e., early leukocytosis and later leukopenia, appear to be due solely to the element of time. This factor of acclimatization may well explain the discordant results of some previous observers.