Unusual lymphocyte subset distribution in some depressed patients

J Clin Psychiatry. 1990 Feb;51(2):51-2.

Abstract

Depression has been previously associated with immunologic dysfunction. The lymphocyte subsets of 10 patients with major depression were found to show a mean T4-T8 (helper-suppressor) ratio lower than that of controls, a difference attributable to increased numbers of suppressor cells in the depressed group. One possible cause of increased suppressor cells is prior or current viral infection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depressive Disorder / complications
  • Depressive Disorder / immunology*
  • Female
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Humans
  • Leukocyte Count
  • Lymphocytosis / classification
  • Lymphocytosis / immunology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • Virus Diseases / complications
  • Virus Diseases / immunology