<i>Ixodes ricinus L.</i> : mast cells, basophils and eosinophils in the sequence of cellular events in the skin of infested or re-infested rabbits

Some information on acquired resistance of rabbits against <i>Ixodes ricinus</i> ticks has been obtained by comparing tissue changes and cellular infiltration during 2 successive infestations, with particular emphasis on the cells involved in immediate type hypersensitivity reactions: mast cells, basophils and eosinophils. More degranulated mast cells were observed in tick lesions 2 h after the beginning of re-infestation than in the first infestation and more degranulated basophils were present on the 5th day of re-infestation. Numerous eosinophils infiltrated the dermis, especially on the 5th day of the second infestation.