ISSN:
1432-2307
Keywords:
Chagas' disease
;
Myocarditis
;
Lymphocytes
;
Immunohistochemistry
;
Heart transplantation
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Cellular subpopulations that infiltrate the heart in human chronic chagasic myocarditis were defined immunohistochemically in endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) specimens. T cells formed 96.3% of the inflammatory infiltrate, predominantly CD8+ (cytotoxic/ suppressor) T cells. The mean numbers of CD8+ and CD4+ (helper) T cells in the myocarditis were compared to those present in the myocardial rejection process. Mean numbers of CD8+ T cells were similar in both groups of EMB specimens while CD4+ T cell counts, CD4+/CD8+ ratios and CD4+ antigen expression were significantly lower in the chagasic group compared to the myocardial rejection group (P〈0.002). The persistent lower number and diminished expression of CD4+ T cells suggest an immunological imbalance in patients with chronic chagasic myocarditis. A possible participation ofTrypanosoma cruzi parasites in the development of such immunological abnormalities is also discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01614765
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