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T-helper cell activation in bullous pemphigoid
J Schaller1, U F Haustein, H Fiebig
1Department of Dermatology, Karl-Marx-University, Leipzig, GDR.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|January 1, 1987
Summary
In acute bullous pemphigoid, T helper cells (CD 4) and activation markers (DR, Tac) are significantly increased. These levels normalize with immunosuppressant treatment, suggesting T helper cell activation is key in this autoimmune skin disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune blistering skin disease.
- The role of T cells in the pathogenesis of bullous pemphigoid is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the T cell populations and activation antigen expression in patients with acute bullous pemphigoid.
- To determine if T cell changes correlate with disease activity and treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to analyze peripheral blood T cells (CD 3, CD 4, CD 8) and activation markers (DR, Tac).
- Evaluated 10 untreated patients with acute bullous pemphigoid and compared them to age- and sex-matched controls.
- Monitored cell counts before and after immunosuppressant treatment.
Main Results:
- Patients with acute bullous pemphigoid showed significantly increased T helper cells (CD 4) and DR/Tac positive lymphocytes compared to controls.
- Pan-T cells (CD 3) and T suppressor cells (CD 8) were within normal ranges.
- Immunosuppressant treatment led to normalization of these elevated cell counts.
Conclusions:
- T helper cell activation is implicated in the acute phase of bullous pemphigoid.
- These findings suggest a potential therapeutic target for bullous pemphigoid.
- Further research into T cell modulation may offer new treatment strategies.