[T-cell subpopulations and suppressor activity in atopic and infection-induced asthma].

We determined the T-lymphocyte subpopulations by means of monoclonal antibodies (CD 3, CD 4, CD 8) and the so-called suppressor index (increased lymphocyte stimulation after 24 h preincubation) in 20 patients with extrinsic asthma and in 18 patients with intrinsic asthma. In patients with extrinsic asthma we found an increase of ratio CD 4/CD 8. The short-living suppressor activity was significantly decreased in patients with intrinsic asthma.