Normal B cell compartment in chronic lymphatic leukemia.

In contrast to normal B lymphocytes, CLL cells express CD5 antigen believed to be a T cell marker. We have assessed normal and malignant B cell compartments in CLL patients with the aid of two-colour immunofluorescence techniques (CD5-TRITC, DR-FITC). No clear correlation was found between progression of disease and parameters studied. However, there was a tendency for a diminution of normal B cells in advanced stages of disease.