Related Experiment Videos
[Skin tests as immunologic parameters in cervical cancer].
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
|June 8, 1984
Summary
This study found that patients with invasive cervical cancer exhibit reduced immune responses to skin tests before surgery. However, immune function improved post-surgery, though cancer patients remained anergic to a new antigen.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gynaecology
- Oncology
Background:
- Cell-mediated immunity is crucial in cancer patients.
- Assessing delayed hypersensitivity reactions can indicate immune status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cell-mediated immunity in patients with cervical cancer and preinvasive lesions.
- To compare immune responses before and after surgical treatment.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 158 cervical cancer patients and 25 controls.
- Immunological skin tests using recall antigens (streptokinase-streptodornase, purified protein derivative, candida) and a primary antigen (DNCB).
- Assessment of delayed hypersensitivity reactions pre- and post-operatively.
Main Results:
- Preoperative recall antigen reactivity was significantly reduced in cervical cancer patients compared to controls and those with benign disorders.
- Immune reactivity to recall antigens improved three weeks after surgery across all groups.
- Postoperative DNCB sensitization revealed severe anergy in cancer patients, with only 1 of 33 showing normal hypersensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Cervical cancer patients exhibit impaired cell-mediated immunity, particularly to recall antigens.
- Surgical treatment can improve immune responses to known antigens.
- Significant postoperative anergy to new antigens (DNCB) suggests profound immune suppression in cancer patients.