Surgical biopsy for persistent generalized lymphadenopathy

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Pathology

Background:

• Persistent generalized lymphadenopathy (PGL) is a condition observed in homosexual men.
• Human T-lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III) has been identified as a potential cause of PGL.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic yield of lymph node biopsy in homosexual men with PGL.
• To determine the association between HTLV-III antibodies and histological findings in PGL patients.

Main Methods:

• Lymph node biopsies were performed on 39 homosexual men presenting with unexplained PGL.
• Serological testing for HTLV-III antibodies was conducted on all patients.

Main Results:

• Antibodies to HTLV-III were detected in 95% of the patients.
• Histological examination revealed follicular hyperplasia in most cases (38/39).
• One case showed caseating granulomata, indicative of tuberculosis.

Conclusions:

• Clinical differentiation of HTLV-III-associated lymphadenopathy from other causes is challenging.
• The presence of HTLV-III antibodies in PGL patients often results in non-specific histological findings.
• A more selective approach to lymph node biopsy is recommended for patients with PGL and HTLV-III antibodies.