[Immunophenotype of peripheral blood lymphocytes in children living in radiation-polluted territories]

The authors provide the data on the assessment of the population composition of peripheral blood lymphocytes. The assessment was performed with the aid of antilymphocytic monoclonal antibodies in children populating radioactive cesium polluted territories and exposed to ionizing radiation in small doses. 56 children were examined. They were distributed into 2 groups depending on radiation exposure: 1 year after the breakdown and 3 years after it. For comparison purposes use was made of the data obtained as a result of examination of 39 children from the unpolluted regions. Measurements were made of the T and B lymphocyte counts as well as of the main subpopulations of T cells. The irradiated children manifested no appreciable alterations in cellular immunity pointing to the status of immune deficiency regardless of the duration of radiation exposure. A moderate reduction of the T-lymphocyte count at the expense of T helpers/inducers may be of nonspecific character.