Distribution of mast cells in the tracheal tissue components of the guinea pig and its bearing on the Schultz-Dale reaction.

The distribution of mast cells in the tracheal tissue components and its bearing on anaphylaxis was studied in the guinea pig. According to a statistical analysis (Nested ANOVA) the density found in the tissue elements showed the following gradation (mean +/- SE): muscle (299.7 +/- 61.6 cells/mm3) < serosa (802.7 +/- 131.2 cells/mm3) < submucosa (24283.5 +/- 2549.2) < mucosa (48066.4 cells/mm3 +/- 7837.4). Regardless of their location in tissue elements, the cell density in a zone far from the muscle was larger than in a zone close to the muscle. Considering the histamine release capability of mast cells, the density found either in muscle or in its surroundings does not account for the mediation theory unless some postulates ad hoc are introduced. A direct biophysical mechanism is possibly involved. Another alternative is a reflex to histamine, since there is preponderant location of mast cells in mucosa and submucosa.