Alterations in Numbers of Circulating Platelets Following Surgical Operation and Administration of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

The factors influencing alterations in circulating platelets following surgical operations are analyzed. There is probably no bone marrow depression following surgery which might be responsible for the early thrombocytopenia, nor is operative hemorrhage sufficient to do so. Evidence procuredfrom administration of adrenocorticotropic hormone suggests that adrenal hyperactivity, a result of the stress of operation, may play an important part in the early postoperative thrombocytopenia. The later thrombocytosis was, however, not observed following administration of this drug.