The effect of nitrogen mustard on human mononuclear blood cells.

The effect of nitrogen mustard on the function of human blood monocytes and lymphocytes cultured in vitro, was studied. After a single in vitro exposure to the drug at culture start, an inhibition of the survival of non-proliferating mononuclear phagocytes was observed. No immediate cytotoxic effect was registered. Nitrogen mustard given in therapeutic doses to patients with malignant lymphogranulomatosis did not reduce the survival of mononuclear phagocytes cultured at different times after the administration of the drug.