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Failure of Whole-Body X-Irradiation to Inhibit the Delayed Hypersensitivity Challenge Response in the Guinea Pig

HENRY C. MAGUIRE, JR., MD; HOWARD I. MAIBACH, MD

Arch Dermatol. 1963;88(6):768-770.

Abstract
Cohen et al and Burdick both have reported that whole body x-ray specifically inhibits the allergic contact dermatitis reaction in sensitized guinea pigs.^3,4 They correlate this effect with x-ray induced lymphopenia. Similar results have been reported by others using specific antilymphocyte antisera (which produces a far less profound lymphopenia).^1,5,6

We are unable to confirm the finding that x-ray induced lymphopenia specifically attenuates the allergic contact dermatitis reaction. Lymphopenia does not correlate with decreased allergic contact skin reactivity. Whole body x-ray over a wide range does not specifically inhibit the elicitation of allergic contact dermatitis. This conclusion has been reinforced by parallel experiments using cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) as leukopenogen.^8,9

Our findings argue against the view that the antibody-like factor of delayed hypersensitivity remains fixed, until the last moment, to blood lymphocytes. Our results are agreeable with the notion that a delayed hypersensitivity antibody-like material circulates in the serum of sensitized animals.¹⁰

Author Affiliations
PHILADELPHIA; SAN FRANCISCO

Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania (Dr. Maguire); Department of Dermatology, University of California at San Francisco (Dr. Maibach).

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