["T" lymphocytes. Their role in periodontal disease]

The immune response is now proved to be of great importance in the control of periodontal diseases. The predominant role of T lymphocytes in the mechanisms of specific immunity is admitted and is related to the functions of effectors T cells and T-helper cells, controlling the response of macrophages and the antibody production. The relations between the evolution of the disease and the tissular T/B and T4/T8 ratio and the lymphocyte function tests are discussed.