Lymphocyte Subsets in Renal Carcinoma--a Sequential Study Using Monoclonal Antibodies

Using monoclonal antibodies in conjunction with flow cytometry, circulating lymphocyte subsets with distinct functions in the regulation of the immune response were enumerated in 32 patients with proven renal carcinoma. Analyses were performed at presentation and sequentially during the clinical course of the patients. Untreated patients with advanced disease had a deficit of T cells with the "helper/inducer" phenotype (Leu-3a+) and this resulted in abnormal T "helper/suppressor" (Leu-3a+/Leu-2a+) ratios. Following nephrectomy, performed in 26 patients, there was a significant increase in the number of T cells with the "helper/inducer" phenotype and a significant increase in T "H/S" ratios. Subsequent follow-up at a minimum of 2 months after nephrectomy showed that the increase in T cells with the "helper/inducer" phenotype was maintained (with the exception of 6 patients with disease progression) and was then accompanied by a significant increase of the T cell subset with the "suppressor/cytotoxic" phenotype (Leu-2a+). Pre-operative renal arterial embolisation resulted in an early transient lymphopenia. The response to embolisation combined with nephrectomy was little different when compared with nephrectomy alone. These observations represent a novel view of the immunosuppressive effects of renal carcinoma and their relation to anaemia and disease progression are discussed.