The relation of cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus antibodies to T-cell subsets in homosexually active men.
Eighty-nine homosexual men participated in a study of sexual practices, T-cell subsets, and antibody titers to cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The prevalence of antibody to CMV was 96% and to EBV, 94%. Titers to CMV were higher in those practicing receptive anal intercourse. The CMV antibody titers were positively correlated with the T-helper/suppressor ratio, number of partners and venereal disease episodes, number of T-suppressor cells, and EBV titers. Twelve percent of the participants had a low ratio only, 18% T-suppressor augmentation, and 3% T-helper deficiency. The CMV titer and prevalence of receptive anal intercourse were higher in those with a low ratio only, T-suppressor augmentation, and T-helper deficiency. These results suggest that CMV infection is acquired through receptive anal intercourse and is associated with an increase in T-suppressor cells and, in some persons, a decrease in T-helper cells.
D000328:Adult; D000914:Antibodies, Viral / Q000032:analysis*; D003587:Cytomegalovirus / Q000276:immunology*; D004854:Herpesvirus 4, Human / Q000276:immunology*; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008297:Male; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000145:classification*; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000145:classification; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / Q000145:classification
D000914:Antibodies, Viral