Abstract
Peripheral and peritoneal lumphocytes were assayed by numerical tests in adults on peritoneal dialysis. T lymphocytes were classified by monoclonal antibodies (OKT3, OKT4, OKT8) and B lymphocytes by the presence of surface immunoglobulins, using the immunofluorescence technique.
Peripheral T cells showed no significant change from the normal, except for T suppressor cells which increased in patients with 2 or more peritonitis episodes.
Examination of peritoneal lymphocytes showed a significant reduction in S-IgA lymphocytes (B cells bearing IgA receptors) and an increase in T-suppressor cells (OKT8+) in patients who developed peritonitis in the follow-up study. The implications of these results are discussed with particular reference to susceptibility to peritonitis.
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