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CD5 B cells in autoimmune and non immune-mediated thyroid dysfunctions
A Afeltra1, G M Ferri, A Amoroso
1Department of Medicina Clinica, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Italy.
Endocrine Research
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Graves' disease (GD) shows a significant increase in CD5+ B cells compared to other thyroid conditions. Treatment with methimazole helps normalize these CD5+ B cells in GD patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Hematology
Background:
- Previous studies indicated elevated CD5+ B cells in Graves' disease (GD).
- The role of CD5+ B cells in various thyroid diseases requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare CD5+ B and CD5- B cell percentages in GD versus other thyroid conditions.
- To assess changes in CD5+ B cells after methimazole treatment in GD.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used for cell analysis.
- Seventy-two patients with GD, silent thyroiditis (ST), Hashimoto's disease (HD), and toxic adenoma (TA) were studied.
- GD patients were re-evaluated after six months of methimazole treatment.
Main Results:
- GD patients exhibited significantly higher percentages and absolute numbers of CD5+ B cells versus controls.
- CD5+ B cell levels tended to normalize after methimazole treatment.
- ST showed increased CD5+ B cell percentages but normal absolute numbers; HD and TA did not show significant changes.
Conclusions:
- A marked increase in CD5+ B cells is specific to active Graves' disease.
- Expansion of CD5+ B cells may contribute to immune dysregulation in GD.