Increased incidence of HL-A 1 and 8 in patients showing IgG or complement coating on their red cells

The incidence of HL-A antigens in patients having a variety of medical conditions, but sharing the common feature of a positive antiglobulin test of the red cells, was determined. There was a significant increase in the antigens HL-A 1 and HL-A 8 and of the 1 and 8 combination when compared with a control group. It is suggested that the presence of these antigens may predispose to autoallergy.

Antibody to hepatitis B antigen in haemophiliacs and their household contacts

The prevalence of antibody to hepatitis B antigen, detectable by radioimmunoassay, was found to be no higher among 58 long-term household contacts of multiply transfused haemophiliacs than among 100 randomly chosen blood donors. This suggested that such contacts do not have greater exposure to serum hepatitis virus than that occurring through natural means. Among those persons possessing antibody, the multiply transfused haemophiliacs showed a marked tendency for higher antibody titres than their contacts, implying differences in pathogenesis between infection acquired through multiple transfusion and infection acquired naturally.

A trial of prophylactic replacement therapy in haemophilia and Christmas disease

A trial of prophylactic replacement therapy in low dosage once a week is described in two patients with classical haemophilia and one patient with Christmas disease, using concentrates of factor VIII and factor IX respectively. The clinical effectiveness and complications of the therapy are assessed and discussed. It was concluded that the patient suffering from Christmas disease showed both objective and subjective improvement while on prophylaxis and merited further study. Neither of the patients with haemophilia showed objective evidence of improvement, but both stated that they felt fitter and more able to lead a normal life while on the trial.

Comparison of absorption of 'slow-Fe' and ferrous sulphate tablets B.P. in patients following partial gastrectomy

Absorption of ‘Slow-Fe’ and Ferrous sulphate tablets B.P. has been compared in patients who have undergone polya partial gastrectomy. No significant difference in absorption between the two preparations has been found.

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura with normal platelet survival time

Platelet survival has been measured in 16 patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Of this group, three patients had a normal result and surface counting did not show high splenic uptake. The clinical features of these patients are described. These patients have remained well for several years without treatment.

Polymorphism of cephaloridine

Infrared spectra of Nujol mulls and X-ray powder photographs have shown that cephaloridine can exist in at least six different crystalline forms. The preparation, interconversion and properties of these forms are discussed. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy has been used to check their chemical identity.