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B lymphocyte changes in homosexual men with generalized lymphadenopathy
Diagnostic Immunology
|January 1, 1984
Summary
This study investigated immune responses in homosexual men, finding reduced lymphocyte function in those with lymphadenopathy and some asymptomatic individuals. These B and T cell abnormalities suggest potential immune system dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cellular Biology
- Virology
Background:
- Homosexual men with generalized lymphadenopathy and asymptomatic individuals were studied.
- Previous research indicated T cell dysfunction in these populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate B and T lymphocyte responses in homosexual men with and without generalized lymphadenopathy.
- To compare immune cell function with normal heterosexual controls.
Main Methods:
- Assessed in vitro proliferative responses to pokeweed mitogen (PWM) and phytohemagglutinin (PHA).
- Determined polyclonal plaque-forming cell (PFC) response to PWM.
- Measured serum immunoglobulin levels and T helper/suppressor cell ratios.
Main Results:
- Decreased PWM and PHA proliferative responses were observed in mononuclear cells from patients with generalized lymphadenopathy and some asymptomatic individuals.
- Reduced PFC response to PWM was noted in these groups, independent of kinetics.
- Elevated serum IgG levels were found in most patients with generalized lymphadenopathy.
- Reduced T helper/suppressor ratios were observed in most symptomatic and some asymptomatic homosexuals.
Conclusions:
- Mononuclear cell dysfunction, characterized by reduced proliferative and differentiative responses to PWM, suggests a potential B cell abnormality.
- These findings, coupled with previously identified T cell dysfunction, indicate broader immune system impairments in affected individuals.