[Evaluation of the lymphocyte level in breast carcinoma]

Lymphocyte patterns were examined in patient with breast cancer. A significant difference (p=0.05) was noted between the four stages of the disease before surgery only, especially in subjects aged 60-80 yr. After surgery and also after subsequent treatment, there was a highly significant fall in levels in subjects aged 40-80 yr with 1st and 2nd stage cancers. Patients aged 60-80 yr who remained free of recurrences or metastases for 4 yr had higher lymphocyte levels (p=0.001) initially. It is therefore felt that in older patients the initial lymphocyte value is of prognostic value.