Changes in T-cell subsets and their clinical significance in cancer patients.
The proportion of T cells that have receptors for IgG-Fc (Fc R+ T cells), the functioning of T cell helpers in immunoglobulin production and the blastogenic response of lymphocytes to PHA and Con A were measured in cancer patients. Increases in the percentage of IgG-Fc R+ T cells were observed in most patients; these were greater in patients with advanced tumours and fell within the normal range after complete surgical removal of the tumour. The functioning of T cell helpers in immunoglobulin production and response of lymphocytes to PHA were poor in those patients in whom IgG-Fc R+ T cell percentages were increased. The lymphocytes of such patients responded well to Con A. These changes in T-cell subsets appear to be related to the presence and progress of tumours.
D002277:Carcinoma / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007141:Immunoglobulin Fc Fragments; D007074:Immunoglobulin G / Q000096:biosynthesis; D007694:Killer Cells, Natural / Q000276:immunology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000187:drug effects; D008934:Mitogens / Q000494:pharmacology; D009303:Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology* / Q000601:surgery; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology*
D007141:Immunoglobulin Fc Fragments; D007074:Immunoglobulin G; D008934:Mitogens