[Leukocyte agglomeration as an activity criterion of inflammatory processes]

The agglomeration of leucocytes serves for the proof of activation of the leucocytic system, the so-called leucergia, which among other occurs in inflammatory diseases of different genesis. On the basis of 1,000 examinations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis the sensitivity of the method was tested compared with the usual criteria of inflammation. In agroup of patients with slight activity with the agglomeration of leucocytes an inflammatory activity could be proved in 67.5% (electrophoresis 53.5%, BSR 49.2%, CrP 35.4%, leucocytosis 27.9%). The chi2-test resulted in a significant correspondence between the examinations mentioned and the agglomeration (p less than 0.001). In contrast to the usual criteria of activity the proof of leucergy is a new principle ofthe diagnostics of activity. High sensitivity and simple methodics recommend the use of the agglomeration of leucocytes in routine diagnostics.