Lack of suppression of certain immunoglobulin-producing lymphocytes in T-lymphocyte deficiency

A 19-yr old female with eczema, acute allergic reactions, and recurrent infections was found to display certain classic signs of T-lymphocyte deficiency. In addition, abnormalities of the B-lymphocyte system were detected, some of which resembled the abnormalities that occur in T-lymphocyte deficient animals. High titers of rheumatoid factor were present. IgE-homocytotrophic antibodies and serum IgA were increased. Plasma cell proliferation occurred in the lung and in mediastinal and adjacent lymph nodes (giant hyperplasia of lymph nodes). Based upon the findings in the present case and in other immunodeficiency disorders, we propose that a lack of T-lymphocyte suppression of certain B-lymphocytes may occur in conjunction with the more classic manifestations of T-lymphocyte deficiency.