STUDIES ON INFLAMMATION : IV. FIXATION OF FOREIGN PROTEIN AT SITE OF INFLAMMATION

Foreign protein such as horse serum injected into an inflamed peritoneal cavity penetrates into the blood stream less rapidly than when introduced into the normal cavity. Foreign protein injected into a cutaneous inflammatory area is held in situ for a longer period than when injected into an inflamed peritoneal cavity. Foreign protein introduced into the circulating blood stream accumulates in an inflamed area, where it is found in greater concentration than in normal tissue. Accumulation of foreign protein at the site of inflammation explains the phenomenon of local anaphylaxis described by Auer in rabbits sensitized to horse serum. The antigen accumulating in the inflamed ear reacts with antibody, intensifies a pre-existing inflammatory reaction and produces necrosis of the ear.