Abstract
The cell distribution and function of alveolar macrophages and T lymphocytes were investigated in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of 15 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). In alveolar macrophages, both spontaneous and PMA-stimulated TNF-alpha production were increased in SSc. PMA-induced IL-6 production was also elevated. Spontaneous IL-6 excretion of scleroderma alveolar macrophages was similar to the controls. Yeast and C3b-coated yeast (opsonised yeast) phagocytosis, chemotaxis and Fc receptor activity of alveolar macrophages were normal. The proportion of CD3, CD4 and CD8 T-lymphocyte subsets in the BAL was similar to the control values. The lymphocyte blast transformation index of the non-adherent cells deriving from the BAL fluid was markedly decreased.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Adult
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Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / chemistry
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Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / cytology
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Cells, Cultured
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Chemotaxis
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Culture Media, Conditioned / metabolism
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Female
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Humans
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Interleukin-6 / biosynthesis
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Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging
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Lung Diseases / immunology
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Lymphocyte Activation / immunology
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Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology
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Macrophages, Alveolar / cytology
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Macrophages, Alveolar / immunology*
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Macrophages, Alveolar / metabolism
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Middle Aged
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Phagocytosis / immunology
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Scleroderma, Systemic / immunology*
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T-Lymphocytes / cytology
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T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
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Tomography, X-Ray Computed
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Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / analysis
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Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / biosynthesis
Substances
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Culture Media, Conditioned
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Interleukin-6
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Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha