Identification and Possible Significance of HNKhyphen;1plus;Human Lymphocytescomma; Macrophagescomma; and Nonhyphen;Neoplastic Thyphen;Cells in Cutaneous Lymphoma

摘要

Experimental work on animal models suggests that various lymphoid subpopulations (K/NK, lymphocytes, macrophages, T-cells) may play a role in immunity against neoplasia, including lymphomas. The incidence and possible role of these cells in spontaneously occurring human tumors is less clear. The prevalence of these lymphoid subpopulations was studied in 60 cutaneous biopsy specimens using in situ immunocytochemistry. Monoclonal HNK-1 (Leu 7), which detects human granular lymphocytes with K/NK function, was used to detect K/NK lymphocytes; macrophages were identified by diffuse cytoplasmic esterase activity; T-cells were identified using monoclonal antibodies OKT3 and Leu 1. HNK-1+lymphocytes, esterase-positive macrophages, and infiltrating T-cells were identified in varying numbers in the cases studied.The demonstration of HNK-1+lymphocytes, macrophages, and T-lymphocytes in cutaneous lymphoma lesions is of potential therapeutic application. Whatever the naturally occurring role of these immune cells, it is possible that they may be manipulated pharmacologically for the benefit of the patient.