Leucocytosis in the Diagnosis of Cancer.

One of the diagnostic points in determining the presence of internal cancer, is the fact that leucocytosis occurs in from thirty-three to fifty percent of all cases. This may be the first indication of cachexia.

The nature and degree of leucocytosis varies with the proportion, size, rapidity of growth, and malignancy of the tumor. It occurs in high degree in carcinoma of the stomach, of the uterus, or of the intestines. Also where there is an involvement of the kidneys, pancreas, and thyroid glands in general.

The larger the tumor and the more rapid its growth, the higher is the degree of leucocytosis. These facts have been determined by Wyle and are reported in The American Journal of Surgery.

Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Vol. 2, 1908, was edited by Finley Ellingwood M.D.