Premature ovarian failure. II: Considerations of cellular immunity defects.

Twenty-three patients with premature ovarian failure (POF), were investigated on the basis of cell-mediated immunity. An increase in T-cells and especially T-helper cells was found in the group of POF patients, while T-suppressor cells and B-cells did not exceed the counts compared to healthy controls matched for age and sex. The macrophage migration inhibition factor (MIF) assay showed a decreased activity towards Haemophiles influenza. Candida albicans and Varidase antigens in the POF group. Levels of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgE and IgM) did not exceed the normal levels. The relationship between the hormonal status of POF patients and their immunological profile is discussed.