Heck, Frank J.

Abstract Peripheral blood smears were studied in 25 selected cases of infectious mononucleosis. In 7 the onset was acute and the course severe, in 6 the onset was acute and the course mild, in 6 the onset was gradual and the course severe, and in 6 the onset was gradual and the course mild. The predominance of any of the various types of lymphocytes of infectious mononucleosis was not noted to bear any relationship to the clinical course, although type III lymphocytes and granulocytic immaturity may be more frequently seen when the onset is acute. When toxic changes are present in the granulocytes, the clinical course is likely to be severe.

Abstract In our experience, in half of the cases of primary hemolytic anemia in which there is no family history of anemia, jaundice or splenomegaly, examination of the blood disclosed microspherocytic erythrocytes and increased fragility of erythrocytes. The results of splenectomy in these cases are better than in those in which microspherocytosis is absent. True macrocytosis was observed in only one instance. Females predominated in both groups of cases. Agglutinins and hemolysins have not appeared to play any significant role in the production of the hemolytic syndrome in our cases. We do not feel justified in expressing an opinion as to whether the microspherocytosis indicates a familial or congenital blood disorder. From a practical standpoint, it makes no great difference since splenectomy should be considered seriously in any case of chronic primary hemolytic anemia. It may be of value in some cases of secondary or symptomatic hemolytic anemia.