[The effect of parenteral nutrition on cellular immune status in patients with gastrointestinal cancer]

In a pilot study, the distribution of lymphocyte subpopulations in the peripheral blood and skin tests with recall antigens have been examined in 42 patients with gastrointestinal cancer before and during a perioperative parenteral hyperalimentation. Concerning the calories and the concentrations of amino acids and carbohydrates, two different solution regimens were applied. During parenteral nutrition with 2400 and 2200 kcal especially the absolute numbers of lymphocyte subpopulations increase reflecting the changes of total lymphocyte count. There was no marked difference between the 2 groups. Both solutions are qualified to balance the preoperative catabolic situation indicated by preoperative lymphopenia. This kind of parenteral nutrition did not influence the patient's cellular immunological status which was tested by 3 recall antigens. It must, however, be considered that the physical i.e. nutritional situation of the patients was not reduced to an extent where the immunological status was impaired. Our results suggest that in the perioperative period cancer patients should be supported by hypercaloric parenteral nutrition. On the other hand more sensitive immunological tests such as DNCB for skin testing and functional assays for in vitro tests are necessary to assess the effects of this kind of therapy.