[Clinico-immunologic correlations and various characteristics of the lymphocyte receptors in hepatocerebral dystrophy].

Clinical and immunological studies were performed in 45 patients with HCD. A group of patients was investigated by conventional immunology tests. spontaneous and active rosette formation, theophylline test, immunofluorescent B-lymphocyte investigation, IgA, IgM, IgG and circulating immune complexes (IC) levels measurement. Monoclonal antibodies were used to count T- and B-lymphocytes, T-helpers and T-suppressors in another group. [3H]-spiroperidol binding to blood lymphocytes was studied in 28 patients. Immune indices were found to be related to the disease duration, degree of visceral deterioration and the duration of Cu-depleting drugs administration. After a prolonged treatment with D-Penicillamin or Cuprenil immune indices returned to normal levels while the count of theophylline-sensitive lymphocytes remained unchanged. The mechanisms of metabolic and immune interrelations in HCD are discussed.