Selective migration of T-cell subset in pleural fluid from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Pleural fluid from a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was examined for lymphocyte subpopulations and their proliferative response to PHA, Con A, and PWM. T lymphocytes were present in a high proportion; in contrast only few B lymphocytes were present when compared to peripheral blood T and B lymphocytes. Among T-cell subsets, Tmu cells were present in high numbers. By contrast Tgamma cells were lacking. Proliferative response to PHA and Con A were normal; however, PWM-induced proliferation was subnormal. This study demonstrates selective migration of a subset of T cells in pleural fluid.