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In 30 non-anemic, and in 7 non-thalassemic, anemic pregnant women the red cell mass (RCM) was determined at 32-36 weeks of pregnancy, using isotopes, and was correlated with red cell 2,3-DPG, using the method of Keitt. The increase in 2,3-DPG in pregnant women with low RCM was in the same range as in those with increased RCM. Thus, 2,3-DPG can not be used to diagnose a RCM deficit in pregnancy. The relationship between 2,3-DPG and RCM in the third trimester was complex: in the 7 anemic women there was an inverse relationship, which failed to reach statistical significance, probably because of the small number of cases; in the 30 non-anemic women there was a significant, positive correlation between 2,3-DPG and RCM. The cause of this positive relationship needs further investigation.

The clinical features, therapy, and hospital course of ten consecutive patients with malignant histiocytosis (MH) are presented. The value of bone marrow aspiration for the diagnosis is discussed. The patient's performance status as described in this report by the organ dysfunction score may predict survival and response to chemotherapy. The literature on chemotherapy in this disease is reviewed. Combination chemotherapy may be the best approach to treatment, but there is little experience with single agents. There is a great need for better characterization of the malignant cell in this disorder.