Few investigations have demonstrated a positive effect of epidural blockade on the leucocytosis and lymphocytopenia secondary to surgery. Thirty elderly patients undergoing total hip replacement were randomly allocated to two groups: epidural analgesia and general anaesthesia. The leucocyte and lymphocyte counts per- and postoperatively were registered. Significant leucocytosis and lymphocytopenia were found in both groups, but no significant difference was found between the groups.