Parallel tubular structures in lymphocytes. II. Correlation with cellular immunity and cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus antibodies in Hodgkin's disease.

The increased incidence of parallel tubular structures in lymphocytes of patients with Hodgkin's disease was investigated for a correlation with either impairment of cellular immunity (measured by DNCB-skin test and PHA-induced lymphocyte stimulation in vitro) or an increase of antibodies against cytomegalovirus or Epstein-Barr virus. No correlations were found. Statistical analysis revealed antibody titers especially in the group of patients with high percentages of lymphocytes containing the tubular inclusions. This probably reflects only the connection between these findings and the progression of the disease. The nature and function of the parallel tubular structures have to be investigated further. In Hodgkin's disease they may have significance for the understanding of an alteration in lymphocyte function and morphology.