Abstract |
Functional T-cell subpopulations have been evaluated in the peripheral blood of 124 melanoma patients (71 non-metastatic and 53 metastatic) using monoclonal antibodies: OKT3, OKT4, OKT8, every 2 months for 1 year. The levels of OKT3+ cells were significantly lower in metastatic patients than in normal controls and they decreased in the advanced phases of the disease. Percentages and absolute OKT4+ cell values were reduced in metastatic patients only, while a significant reduction in OKT8+ cells was noted in both long-surviving, non-metastatic and metastatic patients. The ratio of OKT4+/OKT8+ cells was increased in non-metastatic patients and in patients remaining metastasis-free for 4 years after resection of their metastases. Patients with prolonged survival show normal T-helper cells and low T-suppressor cells with a significant increased ratio OKT4/OKT8. In the patients who developed visceral metastases and in those who died the progressive reduction in total T cells is mainly due to the decrease in OKT4+ cells.
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Authors | M G Bernengo, F Lisa, P Puiatti, M Meregalli, G Berruto, G Zina |
Journal | Thymus
(Thymus)
Vol. 5
Issue 3-4
Pg. 223-33
(Apr 1983)
ISSN: 0165-6090 [Print] Netherlands |
PMID | 6224319
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adult
- Aged
- Antibodies, Monoclonal
(analysis)
- Female
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Leukocyte Count
- Male
- Melanoma
(immunology, secondary)
- Middle Aged
- Prognosis
- T-Lymphocytes
(classification)
- T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory
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