Critical analysis of granulocyte function in 154 patients with different diseases

Several granulocyte functions were analyzed in vitro in 154 patients with chronic or recurrent infections, as well as in a variety of disorders known or suspected to affect host resistance. Only a few specific abnormalities were diagnostic and occurred in congenital, hereditary disorders. Opposed to these permanent changes are those which were probably acquired or transient and are often multifactorial in origin. In the majority of these patients, an inconstant and nonspecific pattern emerged which is not helpful in the diagnosis of underlying disease. In selected patients, however, and as research procedures, these and related tests should be helpful in elucidating the basic functions of granulocytes and may implicate therapeutical approaches.