Changes of T-lymphocyte-subsets and their consequences in B-CLL

Folia Haematol Int Mag Klin Morphol Blutforsch. 1990;117(1):115-25.

Abstract

The distribution of T-lymphocyte subsets of 18 patients with lymphocytic leukaemia tested with monoclonal antibodies as well as E-rosettes formations and EAC-rosettes formations were studied. The patients classified according to RAI (stages 0-II. and III-IV.) a proportional decrease of T-lymphocytes was observed only, whereas their absolute number increased. T-lymphocyte subsets also changed: the ratio of CD4 positive lymphocytes reduce, while the proportion of CD-8 positive lymphocytes increased. The ratio of the two cell groups was below the normal value (1.8 and 1.0, respectively). This value is lower in stages III-IV., and refers to a serious immune imbalance, the latter being responsible for acute infections. The four weeks medication with Leukeran and COP resulted in unchanged rates of pathological cells with a decrease in the number of lymphocytes. These phenomena primarily refer to clonal damage of the cell line, resulting in pathological T-helper and T-suppressor functions. Owing to the relatively long lifespan of the lymphocytes, only a prolonged cytostatic treatment can yield favorable results in therapy.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / immunology
  • Antigens, CD / analysis*
  • Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte / analysis*
  • Bone Marrow / pathology
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / cytology
  • Humans
  • Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell / pathology*
  • Leukocyte Count
  • T-Lymphocytes / cytology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antigens, CD
  • Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte