Role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in infection by retroviruses with emphasis on the human immunodeficiency virus.

Neutrophil function is an integral part of the host defense against multiple pathogens. Through phagocytosis and production of toxic substances, these short lived cells aid in the effective elimination of invading microorganisms such as bacterial and fungal targets. Viral infections, and in particular those of the retroviral type, appear to suppress the immune response through direct cytotoxic destruction of immune cells or alteration of the biochemical interactions that are essential for eradicating the foreign agent. In this report, we describe abnormalities of neutrophil number and function consequent to HIV and other retroviral infections. A myriad of mechanisms, either alone or in concert may explain the underlying aberrations.