Cytologic findings in homosexual males with acquired immunodeficiency

During a three-year period (1979 to 1982), 248 cytology specimens were obtained from 38 homosexual males who were admitted for treatment and had a variety of nonspecific symptoms, such as general malaise and weight loss. Twenty patients had Kaposi's sarcoma. Exfoliative and aspiration/brush specimens were prepared mainly from cerebrospinal fluids and tracheobronchial secretions. One hundred twenty-four specimens were of diagnostic value, exhibiting cytologic abnormalities: acute inflammation (11 specimens), marked cellular atypia (39 specimens), increased number of mature and immature lymphoreticular elements (31 specimens) and organisms such as parasites and fungi (43 specimens). Awareness of an epidemic of acquired immuno-deficiency-associated disease among male homosexuals, in conjunction with special processing and careful interpretation of cytologic specimens, contributed to the identification of organisms and the ruling out of malignancy. Despite prompt treatment, a swiftly progressive clinical course resulted in the death of 20 patients.