A subpopulation of suppressor cells in Richter's syndrome with both monocytic and T-lymphocytic characteristics.
We evaluated T-lymphocyte functions in the peripheral blood of a patient with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia after transformation to large cell lymphoma (Richter's syndrome). A subpopulation of E-rosette adherent cells were found with T-lymphocytic surface markers (OKT3+/8+/4+), monocytic characteristics (latex ingestion, nonspecific esterase staining), and suppressor activity. In contrast to the patient's nonadherent T-cells, this subpopulation suppressed PHA proliferation of autologous lymphocytes, pokeweed mitogen (PWM)-induced proliferation of normal non-T cells, and a mixed lymphocyte reaction. Further studies are warranted in patients with Richter's syndrome, in order to determine the frequency and significance of our findings.
Lahat
N
N
Aghai
E
E
Quitt
M
M
Nir
E
E
Froom
P
P
D002448:Cell Adhesion; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007945:Leukemia, Lymphoid / Q000276:immunology*; D016403:Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / Q000276:immunology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009000:Monocytes / Q000145:classification* / Q000276:immunology; D010641:Phenotype; D012397:Rosette Formation; D013577:Syndrome; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / Q000145:classification* / Q000276:immunology