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OBJECTIVE: The maternal syndrome of preeclampsia has been attributed to a systemic intravascular inflammatory response and endothelial cell dysfunction. The stimulus responsible for intravascular inflammation in preeclampsia has not been determined. The expression of CD45 isoforms on the surface of human T cells has been used to classify CD4[SUP+] T lymphocytes into naïve cells (CD45RA+) and memory T cells (CD45RO+). An increased percentage of CD45RO+ cells has been interpreted as consistent with previous exposure to microbial products or other antigens. The purpose of this study was to determine whether preeclampsia is associated with a change in the proportion of CD45RA+ and CD45RO+. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective study was conducted in patients with preeclampsia (n = 24) and normal pregnancy (n = 75). The percentage of CD45RA+ and CD45RO+ on CD4[SUP+] T lymphocytes in peripheral blood was determined using flow cytometry and monoclonal antibodies. Results were reported as a percentage of CD4[SUP+] lymphocytes. Parametric statistics were used for analysis. A probability value of <.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Patients with preeclampsia had a significantly higher percentage of CD45RO+ than normal pregnant women (P < .01). A significantly lower percentage of CD45RA+ was found in patients with preeclampsia than in normal pregnant women (P < .01). CONCLUSlON: Preeclampsia is associated with an increase in the percentage of CD45RO+ and a decrease in the CD45RA+ lymphocyte subpopulation. Therefore, patients with preeclampsia have evidence of previous antigenic exposure, the nature of which remains to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the characteristics of maternal monocytes and granulocytes in preterm labor with intact membranes in Detriot, Michigan. Impact of monoclonal antibodies on granulocyte and monocyte phenotype; Effect of white blood cells on inflammatory response; Evaluation of the results of flow cytometric analysis of patients.

Examines the phenotypic and metabolic characteristics of monocytes and granulocytes in normal pregnancy and maternal infection. Impact of gestational age on maternal peripheral blood; Correlation between leukocyte and cell activation; Symptoms of pyelonephritis.

Examines the metabolic characteristics of monocytes and granulocytes in women with preeclampsia in Detroit, Michigan. Use of flow cytometry for the study of intravascular inflammation; Application of monoclonal antibodies for selective cluster differentiation antigens; Assessment of peripheral venous blood.