T-lymphocyte subsets in normal menstrual cycle

OKT3, OKT4, OKT8 positive cells levels were evaluated in 27 healthy volunteers, during preovulatory phase, luteal phase and menstrual period. OKT3, OKT4 positive cells showed no statistical difference over the three periods, while OKT8 positive cells decrease in preovulatory phase compared to both luteal phase (p less than 0.05) and menstrual period (p less than 0.02). A possible immunoregulatory function of oestrogens is discussed.