A noninvasive membrane filter method for in vivo determination of leukocyte migration in man.

A new in vivo method for measuring leukocyte migration in man involves the insertion of "platelets" prepared from membrane filters into the lower conjunctival sac. The "platelets" contain casein and are coated unilaterally with a foil, permitting the casein to diffuse in one direction only. A chemotactic gradient is thereby formed, in which neutrophil granulocytes originating from the conjunctival mucosa migrate. The total amount of immigrant cells, as well as their distribution within the filter "platelets" are evaluated. The method yields information as to the speed of migration of the cells and the intensity of egress from the vessels. A few cases of diseases are demonstrated where the total amount of cells and their distribution patterns differ from the standard values.