Abnormality of Leu 2+7+ cells in acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), AIDS-related complex, and asymptomatic homosexuals

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Abstract
Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related complex (ARC), asymptomatic homosexuals, and healthy heterosexuals were analyzed for the proportions and numbers of Leu 7+ cells and double-labeled Leu 2+7+ cells and for the natural killer functions. A significant increase in the proportions and numbers of Leu 7+ cells was observed in patients with AIDS and ARC and in asymptomatic homosexuals compared to healthy heterosexual men. The proportions of Leu 2+7+ cells were significantly increased in AIDS, ARC, and asymptomatic homosexuals, whereas the numbers were increased in asymptomatic homosexuals and ARC but not in AIDS compared to heterosexual controls. A significant increase in the number of Leu 2+7+ cells was observed in AIDS with Kaposi's sarcoma but not in AIDS with opportunistic infections. The natural killer function was significantly depressed in patients with AIDS and ARC and in asymptomatic homosexuals. These data suggest that the quantitative abnormalities of Leu 2+7+ cells appear early during the evolution of immunologic changes in HTLV III/LAV infection.