516 INFLUENCE OF X-RAYS ON PROPERTIES OF BLOOD 



injections of the salt. This is true in the guinea pig too, the only- 

 other animal to which we have so far extended these observations. 

 Following an injection of 5 cc. of physiological saline solution we 

 observe no significant change in the blood picture compared with 

 blood counts on normal animals made at similar intervals. 



DISCUSSION. 



The facts thus presented develop an interesting analogy between 

 the changes associated with x-ray effects and those found following 

 injections of sodium bicarbonate. We do not feel justified at this 

 time in attempting to make a definite interpretation of these results. 

 The analogy, however, seems to be a striking one and it is very sugges- 

 tive for further study, since it presents a possible opening for investi- 

 gations concerning the mechanism of x-ray action on the animal body. 

 Furthermore, evidence is found which justifies a doubt that the 

 characteristic cell changes noted following x-ray exposures are due to 

 the direct action of the x-rays. Additional force is given this doubt 

 by the results of further experiments now in progress in which we are 

 observing the effects accompanying the injection of other substances. 

 So far we have used sodium chloride, sodium sulfate, monosodium 

 phosphate, and glucose. Very definite changes are noted in the blood 

 picture, but the data we have to date are not sufficient to permit of any 

 further statement. 



CONCLUSION. 



When rabbits are exposed to x-radiation as described, there results 



BA 



a definite change in the — — ratio of their plasma. This change is 



HA 



evidently one which defines a state of uncompensated alkali excess. 



The time required for a maximum change in the chemical reaction is 

 the same as that required for a maximum change in the decrease of 

 leucocytes. 



Sodium bicarbonate injected into the peritoneal cavity is followed 

 by results identical with those observed following exposure to x-rays. 

 The maximum changes occur in a shorter time following bicarbonate 

 injection, but the relation between chemical and morphological 

 changes are the same. 



We consider this analogy to be an important one in that it is sugges- 

 tive of a relationship between the effect of salt and the effect of x-rays. 



