[Modification of radiogenic leukopenia]

In our investigations on rats was proofed the qualification of substances 2-Cyanoethyl Urea (CEH), Thymus-Extract and Lithium-carbonate for a potential reducing or shortening of the leucocyte-depression after whole-body irradiation. Intravenous applications of 2-Cyanoethyl Urea in Wistar rats showed no effect not only in the increase of leucocytes but also in variation in portions of leucocytes. In our investigations we could not influence radiogenic phase of leucopenia by application of CEH after 7 Gy whole-body irradiation. Intramuscular injections of thymus extract don't influence the number of leucocytes in peripheral blood in irradiated Wistar rats. The differential blood-count was uninfluenced. Increase in concentration of thymus extract and also higher frequency of the applications effect no changes in blood-count. Leucocyte depression after whole-body irradiation was independent of the application modus of thymus extract. Lithium-carbonate shows a significant increase of leucocytes in peripheral blood in dependence of dosage and frequency of application. After whole-body irradiation with 7 Gy under lithium therapy it was shown that on day 6th after irradiation leucocyte number was significantly higher than in controls. Radiogenic leucopenia phase was reduced significantly by lithium.