Influence of anatomic localization and extent of surgical trauma on immune responses in mice

The humoral immune response to SRBC and contact sensitivity (CS) reaction to picryl chloride and oxazolone was studied in traumatized mice (laparotomy, gastrectomy, leg amputation). While depression of CS was observed after leg amputation and gastrectomy, laparotomy had no effect. On the other hand, laparotomy and gastrectomy evoked stimulation of anti-SRBC antibody production, whereas leg amputation significantly reduced the humoral response. Results are discussed in relation to postulated role of trauma in the modulation of immune response regarding the anatomic localization and extent of surgical procedure.