Analysis of T lymphocyte subsets in cytomegalovirus mononucleosis.

Abstract

Lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogens and herpes virus antigens are diminished during cytomegalovirus (CMV) mononucleosis. We analyzed peripheral blood T lymphocytes from patients in the acute and convalescent phases of CMV mononucleosis using monoclonal antibodies directed against the T helper and the T cytotoxic-suppressor cell subsets. Acute CMV infection is associated with a reversal in the normal ratio of helper to suppressor T lymphocytes with relative and absolute decreases in T helper cells and corresponding increases in T suppressor cells. These alterations in T lymphocyte subsets are accompanied by diminished lymphocyte responses to the mitogen concanavalin A (Con A). During convalescence, helper T lymphocytes increase, suppressor T lymphocytes decrease, and Con A responses return to normal.

Gastrointestinal Cytomegalovirus Infection Complicating Crohn's Disease in an Adolescent Without AIDS

“…A resulting increased susceptibility to viral infections could be enhanced in the presence of an inflamed mucosa, as shown in animal studies (15). Viral infections such as CMV and Epstein‐Barr virus may also be associated with a reversal in the normal ratio of helper to suppressor T lymphocytes, with a relative and absolute decrease in T helper cells and a corresponding increase in T suppressor cells (16). Malnutrition is another well‐known cause of T‐cell dysfunction and altered CD4/CD8 ratio (2).…”

Prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in the pediatric renal transplant recipient

“…The major risk factors for superinfection with opportunistic pathogens (e. g., Pneumocystis carinii, fungi and Listeria monocytogenes) associated with CMV disease are severe leukopenia (<1,500 lenkocytes) [2] and a decrease in circulating CD4-positive T lymphocytes (increase in CD8-positive ceils) [43][44][45].…”

The acquired immune deficiency syndrome: An international health problem of increasing importance

“…Interestingly, abnormally low H:S ratios are also often found (to lesser degrees) in apparently healthy subjects from populations at risk for AIDS, such as healthy homosexual males (Table 7). Some acute viral infections will also cause transient depressions in H:S ratios [5].…”

“…Although a variety of research tests have been proposed as being useful for the diagnosis of AIDS, such as levels of beta-2-microglobulin, alpha-l-thymosin, and acid-labile interferon, or even helper:suppressor lymphocyte subset ratios, they all appear to lack either sensitivity, specificity, or both [i 9, 25]. For example, although helper:suppressor ratios are abnormal in virtually all known cases of AIDS, they are also abnormal in a variety of other conditions, including acute viral infections of healthy adults [5]. Thus, this test is sensitive but not specific (it also has the disadvantage of expense, costing about DM 300 per determination in the USA).…”