Extensive T8-positive lymphocytic visceral infiltration in a homosexual man

Lymphocytic visceral infiltration has recently been noted in association with lymphadenopathy-associated virus infection. A homosexual man, who had clinical and immunologic features of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related complex, is described. The patient presented not only with peripheral blood lymphocytosis but also with extensive lymphocytic infiltration involving lungs, lymph nodes, nerves, muscles, and esophagus. Lymphocyte subset immunostaining analysis showed that the lymphocytes were T8-positive. Thirty months after the clinical onset of the disease, no evidence of progression to AIDS was seen. Moreover, clinical improvement was observed, even though the patient did not receive long-term treatment. The clinical history of this patient suggests that lung T8-positive lymphocytic infiltration is associated with an increased risk of infectious episodes such as pneumonia and bronchitis.