THE RETICULO-ENDOTHELIAL SYSTEM

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Abstract
The reticulo-endothelial system is composed of cells grouped together because of common phagocytic properties, reaction to vital dyes, and general similarity of function. The cells consist of reticular and endothelial cells of the spleen, liver, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and histiocytes of general connective tissues. Recent investigations indicate that 2 types of histiocytes can be differentiated by supra vital technic, the monocyte and the clasmatocyte, the former being derived from a primitive reticular cell and the latter from endothelium. Cells of hemolytopoietic organs enter the blood, and may be found constantly as monocytes, and clasmato-cytes. Mononuclears of the blood are remarkable for their possible multiplicity and diversity. The reticulo-endothelial system plays a role in specific infections. Value of the cells in production of immunity is also significant. An important function of the reticulo-endothelial cells is the destruction of erythrocytes. Under certain pathological conditions this role is greatly increased. Certain disorders of lipoid metabolism are-associated with the reticulo-endothelial system.

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