D-penicillamine-induced enhancement of the delayed hypersensitivity reaction in guinea-pigs.

Intraperitoneal gelatin sponge implants were used in guinea-pigs to examine the effect of D-penicillamine on the delayed hypersensitivity reaction in vivo. When it was administered daily in a dose of 200 mg/kg for 14 days before sensitisation or for 14 or 30 days before challenge, D-penicillamine increased the number of exudate cells during the onset of the delayed hypersensitivity reaction. About 20% more polymorphonuclear cells accumulated in the sponges within 6-12 hours of implantation than did without D-penicillamine. Moreover, mononuclear cells also increased up to 20%, but this effect was apparent only 24 to 72 hours after sponge implantation and if D-penicillamine had been administered immediately before challenge.