[Humoral immunity and lymphocyte subsets in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy]

We examined immunological abnormalities in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and reviewed their medical histories, NYHA classifications, electrocardiogram findings and chest X-Ray findings with regard to severity of DCM. Elevated CD4/CD8 ratio as well as decreased number of CD8 cells in lymphocyte subsets was recognized. These abnormalities were particularly noted in patients with past history of myocarditis. NYHA IV class increases in CTR and left ventricular dimension, and a reduced ejection fraction. These findings suggest that lasting of myocardial damage causes immunological abnormalities and the examination of DCM patients' immunological status is useful in anticipating disease process and determining medical treatment.