[Combination use of lentinan with X-ray therapy in a mouse experimental tumor system (Part I). Basic studies]

Apparent reduction of leukocyte counts was observed in mice irradiated with 1,500 approximately 3,000 rads of X-ray on the left hind leg. This reduction of leukocyte counts was completely protected by the pre-treatment with lentinan before X-ray irradiation. Suppressive effect of X-ray on the antitumor function of lentinan seems to be weak. When treatment with X-ray irradiation and lentinan was applied for mice bearing solid type sarcoma 180, additive effect was obtained by the combination of lentinan before or after X-ray irradiation.