Mitogen stimulated transformation of blood lymphocytes is effected with a whole blood sample of a quantity of no greater than 0.5 ml, and a mitogen to whole blood sample ratio which prevents agglutination of blood cells to thereby facilitate uniform uptake of reagents by the lymphocytes in subsequent testing. Lymphocyte transformation can be measured by use of a radioisotope, and the technique is particularly suitable for measuring vitamin deficiency by a dU or thymidine suppression test, or for determining lymphocytic malignancy. The use of a whole blood culture eliminates lymphocyte separation, and the use of micro quantities of blood extends clinical application to routine laboratories and pediatric patients.
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