Reduced graft-versus-host reaction of T cells in Kaposi's sarcoma: a possible prognostic indicator

In 20 patients with Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) the level of B and T lymphocytes in the peripheral blood, as well as the function of T cells measured by the graft-versus-host reaction (GVHR), were investigated. Analysis of the results regarding the distribution of skin lesions showed that the mean GVHR was within normal range in 13 patients in whom the lesions were confined to the distal portions of the extremities. In 7 patients, who demonstrated generalized distribution of the eruption, the mean GVHR was significantly lower in comparison with the control group. In view of our results we may conclude that cellular immunity is impaired in KS patients with generalized distribution. Testing T cell function is recommended as a possible prognostic indicator.