The Effect of Orally Administered Bovine Spleen Preparations on Platelet and Leukocyte Counts of Rats

Several orally administered beef spleen preparations were evaluated fortheir effect on platelet and leukocyte counts of rats. In some studies, cowspleen exerted a definite though variable count lowering activity. Furtherstudies yielded less dramatic or negative results. Pooled beef spleen, wholeor crudely fractionated, had no demonstrable effect on the blood counts.

Other variables, including temperature, feeding methods, seasonal factors,and animal housing did not appear significant.

No consistent, predictable effect of beef spleen feedings could be demonstrated under the various conditions tested.

Submitted on January 9, 1964 Accepted on March 21, 1965