[Mast cell reaction outside the acute inflammation focus]

The quantitative and morphological changes of peritoneal fluid and mesenteric mast cells, the content of cellular and free histamine and serotonin were studied in the time course of acute aseptic inflammation induced by turpentine inoculated subcutaneously into the thigh of white rats. An increase in the mast cell count and activity and cellular histamine and serotonin content was found. The highest mast cell activity was observed at the peak of acute inflammation. The development of acute inflammation was characterized by both local (in the inflammatory focus) and systemic mast cell reaction which reflected participation of mast cells in general manifestations of inflammation.