Summary
The effects of 2 intraperitoneal injections of the alkylating agent Busulphan (each
of 25 mg/kg body weight, 3 days between injections) on the circulating elements of
the blood and on the plasma coagulation system in rabbits have been investigated.
Platelets fell progressively after a lag-phase of 7 days, reached a mean minimum level
of about 3 % of the pre-injection level in 14 days, and then returned slowly towards
normal values. Bleeding was an occasional complication and a rare cause of death.
Granulocytopenia developed synchronously with the fall in platelets. The plasma clotting
factors remained intact.
We conclude that this is a useful experimental model for studies on the role of platelets
in hemostasis and thrombosis.
