CHANGES IN MATERNAL PERIPHERAL LEUCOCYTES AROUND DELIVERY

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Abstract
Changes in leukocyte populations and lymphocyte transformation with phytohemagglutinin were measured serially in 12 pregnant women, before and after delivery. There was a significant increase in the total numbers of leukocytes and neutrophils at delivery and for the 24 h post partum. Lymphocyte counts increased, but not at significant levels, at or following delivery. Lymphocyte transformation rates were significantly higher before delivery and at 24 h post partum than at delivery or 2 h post partum. Although plasma suppressor factors were found before and after delivery, plasma taken at delivery or 2 h post partum was significantly more suppressive for nonpregnant lymphocytes. Maternal blood samples should be taken before delivery for assays of maternal immunocompetence or maternofetal mixed leukocyte reactions.

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