T cell lymphopenia in Nigerians with hepatocellular carcinoma

Lymphocyte sub-populations were studied in 26 Nigerian patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PLCC) and in 12 normal controls. The 3H-thymidine incorporation of lymphocytes from patients and controls was also studied on phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) stimulation. Total mean lymphocyte and B-cell lymphocyte counts were not different between patients and controls. The mean T cell percentages and absolute counts were significantly lower in patients than in controls. There was a significant elevation of null cell numbers and percentage in PLCC patients. Lymphocytes from patients and controls gave similar response on PHA stimulation.