A computational analysis of Canale-Smith syndrome: chronic lymphadenopathy simulating malignant lymphoma

The objective of this study was to simulate changes in the human T cell system representing Canale-Smith syndrome using a dynamic computer model of T cell development and comparing with available human data.

Physiological stepwise maturation and function of T lymphocytes in the computer model is altered by introducing functional disturbances following lymphotropic virus infection. In the present model, acute and chronic persistent infection with the human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) was simulated, and ensuing changes in T cell populations were compared with those measured in human patients.

Using our computer model we previously found that simulated acute HHV-6 infection produced T cell computer data, which resembled an infectious mononucleosis-like disease in patients. Simulated chronic persistent infection, instead, resulted in variable cell changes comparing well to patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. In one setting, however, persistent immature lymphocytosis was observed similar to what initial has been described in this journal as Canale-Smith syndrome.

Using a computer model developed by us we were able to produce simulations that resemble the immune system features of Canale-Smith syndrome. Further understanding of these simulation results may possibly guide future investigations into this disorder.