An assay of mononuclear cell dynamics in various subcutaneous cranial sites

Although polymorphonuclear leukocyte kinetics at sites of tissue injury have been well documented, analogous mononuclear cell data have yet to be reported because of the lack of suitable assay techniques. In this study, counts of mononuclear cells adherent to nitrocellulose filter discs implanted in four subcutaneous sites for nine consecutive days showed a greater degree of cellular accumulation in the temporalis than in the frontalis region, the data for the masseter and submandibular regions being similar and intermediate. This type of assay may prove useful in elucidating the role of mononuclear cells in wound healing and the effect of antiinflammatory agents on mononuclear cell kinetics.