Predictive value of T-cell subset derangements in lung cancer

The proportions of T-lymphocytes, T-lymphocyte subsets, NK cells, DR determinant and interleukin-2 receptor-bearing T-lymphocytes were enumerated in 39 patients with lung cancer prior to any chemotherapy. T-lymphocytes, suppressor/cytotoxic T-cells and interleukin-2 receptor-bearing T-cells were found to be significantly higher in patients responding than in those not responding to chemotherapy. Such mononuclear cell subset analysis by monoclonal antibodies might be additional information to consider before undertaking treatment.