THE WIDAL TEST IN WORKERS EXPOSED TO RADIOACTIVITY

The Widal test was performed on x-ray workers, and the result of this test was compared with the finding of leukocytosis after the administration of a cystine preparation. A significant increase in circulating leukocyte count after the ingestion of milk was seen in 66% of healthy adults who did not engage in x- ray work and in 44% of the x-ray workers who had been engaged for 6 to l0 years. Workers engaged for more than 20 years showed no reaction. After administration of the cystine preparation a significant increase in the circulating leukocyte count was observed in 57% of the cases. (Abstr. Japan Med., 1: No. 13, l961)