1. Changes in T-lymphocyte subsets after elective surgery
- Author
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Madsbad S, Karsten Buschard, Siemssen O, and Røpke C
- Subjects
Male ,Leukocyte Count ,T-Lymphocytes ,Leukocytes ,Humans ,Cholecystectomy ,Female ,Postoperative Period ,Anesthesia, General ,Middle Aged ,Vagotomy ,Monocytes ,Aged - Abstract
In seven patients undergoing elective cholecystectomy or vagotomy, helper and suppressor/cytotoxic T-cells were quantified by use of monoclonal antibodies (OKT) preoperatively and on postoperative days 2 and 7. The total number and percentage distribution of T-cells (OKT 3) did not change significantly in the study period and the total number of helper T-cells (OKT 4) was similar in the three tests, but the number of suppressor/cytotoxic T-cells (OKT 8) on postoperative days 2 and 7 showed significant rise from the preoperative value. Consequently, significant decrease in OKT 4/8 ratio was found 2 days (1.47 +/- 0.23) and 7 days (1.80 +/- 0.28) postoperatively, as compared with the preoperative ratio (2.85 +/- 0.44). Since reduced ratio of OKT 4/8 has been shown in disorders associated with diminished immunocompetence, our findings may be related to the increased susceptibility to bacterial infections seen in post-surgery patients.
- Published
- 1986