An Analysis of Graft-Versus-Host Disease in Syrian Hamsters

SUMMARY

The hematological changes secondary to graft-versus-host (GVH) disease in adult F₁ hybrid Syrian hamsters comprise diffuse and nonspecific hematopoietic stimulation followed by moderate to severe bone marrow suppression from which some animals recover. Although bone marrow insufficiency doubtless contributes to the degree of anemia observed, red cell survival times indicated that hemolysis was also a factor, and preliminary studies suggested that disseminated intravascular coagulation might be the pathogenic mechanism. These findings underscored previous observations that, in hamster GVH disease, destruction of nonlymphoid tissues is procured by immunologically nonspecific means, generally of innocent bystander nature.