The link between T helper balance and lymphoproliferative disease.
Lymphoproliferative disorders comprise a heterogeneous group of neoplasms whose behaviors range from indolent to very aggressive. The increased incidence seen in the context of immunodeficiency provides evidence that the host immune system plays a vital role in their pathogenesis. We believe that T-helper (Th)-2 dominant states favor development of lymphoproliferative disorders, including lymphoma, and conversely T-helper (Th)-1 immunity protects against lymphoproliferative disease. The age distribution of lymphomas favors childhood and post-reproductive senescence, suggesting that exposure to these periods of Th-2 bias constitutes a key risk factor for developing the disease. The tendency of lymphomas to arise in Th-2 biased locations such as mucosal interfaces, immunoprivileged sites, and regions of B-cell differentiation may likewise reflect a corresponding spatial predilection. Various clinical conditions or treatments that shift Th1/Th2 balance, including HIV infection, transplant-related immune suppression, and autoimmune disorders, can also influence the status of lymphoproliferative diseases.
Yun
Anthony J
AJ
Department of Radiology, Stanford University, 470 University Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA. ayun@stanford.edu
Lee
Patrick Y
PY
D006706:Homeostasis / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D016399:Lymphoma, T-Cell / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D008232:Lymphoproliferative Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology*; D018417:Th1 Cells / Q000473:pathology*; D018418:Th2 Cells / Q000473:pathology*