[T-cell subpopulations during acute attacks of pernicious malaria]

The distribution of T-cell subsets in acute and cerebral malaria have been studied using two monoclonal antibodies. In the course of the disease both in acute and cerebral malaria in persons living in senegalese hypoendemic area occurred important alterations of circulating T-cell subsets. A significant loss of OKT4 positive cells is observed; OKT8 positive lymphocytes are also affected but to a lesser extent. The reversal of the OKT4/OKT8 ratio found in this disease is associated with decrease responsiveness of lymphocytes to PHA. The considerable loss seen in OKT4 cells fonction could be of great importance in reducing cell mediated immune mechanisms and humoral response needed to eradicate the malaria parasite.