Comparison of delayed type hypersensitivity and T subsets in random and homosexual populations in western Australia.
Random and homosexual populations were tested for delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) (Multitest) reactivity and T cell subsets. In the random population DTH reactivity was stronger in males irrespective of age. Reactivity in the homosexuals was generally even stronger especially with respect to tuberculin. As a group, male homosexuals had low OKT 4/8 ratios when compared with sex and age matched controls. Analysis of DTH and T cell subset results in the random group showed an association between anergy and low OKT 4/8 ratios. It is concluded that homosexuals demonstrate some alteration of cell mediated immunity and therefore may be at risk of various infections.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000942:Antigens, Bacterial / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001315:Australia; D005260:Female; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D006968:Hypersensitivity, Delayed / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology*; D007111:Immunity, Cellular; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000145:classification / Q000166:cytology* / Q000276:immunology
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000942:Antigens, Bacterial