Immunological membrane markers of Hodgkin's cells

Reed-Sternberg and other Hodgkin's giant cells derived from involved spleens and lymph nodes of patients with Hodgkin's disease were examined for surface markers of T and B cells and macrophages. Attachment and phagocytosis of untreated (E) or sensitized (EA and EAC) sheep red blood cells and yeast by Reed-Sternberg cells did not occur. IgG frequently detected at the membrane of Reed-Sternberg cells was partially removed by incubation and washing at 37 degrees C. Fluorescence with a specific anti-T cell serum was not seen on Reed-Sternberg and other Hodgkin's giant cells lack most detectable normal human lymphoid cell markers, but do exhibit membrane bound immunoglobulin possibly of exogenous origin.