Neutrophil function during cyclic chemotherapy for cancer disease

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Granulocyte function is crucial for immune response.
• Chemotherapy's impact on granulocyte function in cancer patients is not fully understood.
• Depressed granulocyte function may correlate with infection susceptibility and tumor spread.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of cyclic chemotherapy on granulocyte function in cancer patients.
• To assess changes in delayed hypersensitivity skin reactions post-chemotherapy.
• To explore correlations between granulocyte function, immune complexes, and clinical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Assessed granulocyte function (mobilization, NBT reduction, phagocytosis) before, during, and after chemotherapy.
• Evaluated delayed hypersensitivity skin reactions (PPD, Varidase).
• Correlated skin chamber leukocyte accumulation with skin test results.
• Monitored circulating immune complex levels.

Main Results:

• Chemotherapy increased leukocyte mobilization, NBT dye reduction, and phagocytosis in most patients.
• Delayed hypersensitivity skin reactions to PPD and Varidase also improved.
• A significant correlation was observed between polymorphonuclear leukocyte accumulation and skin test responses.
• Circulating immune complex levels fluctuated without a clear link to granulocyte function.

Conclusions:

• Chemotherapy appears to restore polymorphonuclear function and enhance delayed hypersensitivity.
• Improved granulocyte function may reduce infection risk and hinder tumor dissemination.
• Findings support the role of granulocyte dysfunction in cancer progression and infection.