[Leukocyte agglutination test for the determination of microbial burden]

Transfer of laboratory animals from the breeder to the experimental unit includes in most cases a change of the microbial environment even under SPF-conditions. Many experimental treatments may also disturb the balance between host and microbial load and provoke infections. With the aim to detect such undesired effects in the course of the experiment the suitability of the leukergy test was investigated. SPF-rats, endotoxin-treated rats, and conventionalized germ-free rats were checked for leukocyte agglomeration, and the findings were compared with total leukocyte number, blood picture, endotoxin content in the blood and body temperature. A rise of leukergy from 10 to more than 20% was recorded in endotoxin-treated and conventionalized rats.