ISSN:
1432-069X
Keywords:
Herpes zoster
;
Monoclonal antibodies
;
T cells
;
B cells
;
Monocytes
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Summary Circulating and in situ mononuclear cell subsets were phenotypically characterized during both the acure and convalescent phase of herpes zoster infections in 14 patients. In peripheral blood a significant reduction in the absolute number of Leu 4+ T cells, Leu 2a+ suppressor/cytotoxic T cells, Leu 3a+ helper/inducer T cells, Leu 7+ killer cells, and B1+ B cells were found during the acute stage compared to convalescents and normal controls. In contrast no change in the absolute number of MO2+ monocytes was seen in the acute stage of the disease. During convalescence a return to normal values in the lymphocyte subsets and killer cells was seen within 1–2 months after the initial disease presentation. In skin biopsy specimens from 4 of the 14 patients with active herpes zoster lesions the cellular infiltrate consisted of T cells (Leu 4+) the majority being helper/inducer T cells (Leu 3a+). Most of the cells expressed HLA-DR (Ia) antigens and were according to this in an activated state. The observed changes in effector and regulatory cell numbers may have implications for the acquisition of Varicella-zoster virus infections, the immune deficiency state associated with the disease, and/or the immune response to resolve the infection.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00412622
