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Monocyte phagocytic activity in sickle cell disease
E Mendoza1, N Gutgsell, J D Temple
1William J. Harrington Center for Blood Diseases, University of Miami School of Medicine, Fla.
Acta Haematologica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Monocyte phagocytic activity in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients is not deficient. During vasoocclusive crises, SCD monocytes show enhanced, not impaired, phagocytosis, suggesting it doesn't cause infection susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with immune response defects.
- Monocyte dysfunction is a potential factor in SCD-related infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phagocytic activity of peripheral blood monocytes in SCD patients.
- To determine if monocyte phagocytosis is impaired in SCD, particularly during crises.
Main Methods:
- Monocyte monolayer assay was used to assess phagocytic activity.
- Antibody-coated red blood cells were used as targets for phagocytosis.
- Comparison between SCD patients (stable and in crisis) and normal controls.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in phagocytosis between stable SCD patients and normal controls.
- Significantly increased monocyte phagocytic activity in SCD patients during vasoocclusive crises compared to controls (p < 0.025).
Conclusions:
- Monocyte phagocytic activity is not deficient in sickle cell disease.
- Enhanced phagocytosis during crises suggests it is not a factor in infection predisposition in SCD.