[A study on lymphocyte subpopulations and immunologic status of female workers exposed to benzene]

Peripheral blood from 29 female subjects occupationally exposed to benzene for an average duration of 8.6 years were analysed with monoclonal antibodies (McAbs). Acid alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE)-positive cells among lymphocytes and serum IgG, IgA and IgM levels were determined simultaneously. The results showed a decreased total number of lymphocytes, reduction of percentages and absolute numbers of both CD2+ and CD4+ cells, decreased CD8+ and CD57+ cell numbers without significant changes in their percentages, a decreased CD4+/CD8+ ratio, an increased CD20+ cell percentage without significant change in its absolute number and a decreased serum IgM level. ANAE(+)-cell percentages of lymphocytes were of marked positive correlation to CD2+ cell percentages. These results indicate that benzene can cause immunosuppressive effects to the exposed subjects and the analysis of lymphocyte subpopulations by means of McAbs may be useful for evaluating early adverse health effects on workers exposed to the toxicant.