CD5+ B lymphocytes in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.
B lymphocytes which express the CD5 antigen on their cell surface have the ability to produce autoantibodies in vitro. We describe 2 patients, one with systemic lupus erythematosus and another with rheumatoid arthritis, whose percentages of peripheral blood CD5+ B lymphocytes were dramatically increased to 68 and 100%, respectively. A reduction of this subpopulation of B cells was associated with clinical improvement after therapy. This association suggests a relationship between CD5+ B cells and autoimmune disease activity.
Rheumatology Section, Boston Veterans Administration Medical Center, MA.
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Olson
D000328:Adult; D000943:Antigens, Differentiation / Q000276:immunology*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D018956:CD5 Antigens; D006801:Humans; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D000943:Antigens, Differentiation; D018956:CD5 Antigens