Observations in the study of T-lymphocyte subsets by monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometric analysis in intracranial neoplastic disorders.

The combination of monoclonal antibody specific for lymphocyte cell surface determinants indicative of T cell subsets and flow cytometric analysis offers a rapid and reliable method for assessment of T cell populations in various states of health and disease. Applications of this technique to patients with various histological types of intracranial neoplasia has indicated: 1. A significant depression of the total T cell population 2. A relative suppressor-cytotoxic predominance in malignant intrinsic neoplasms 3. A relative helper/inducer predominance in benign extrinsic neoplasms. Application of this rapid assay may offer a practical mode of serial assessment of immune responsively in intracranial neoplastic processes. Further study with assays of immune complexes and suppressor functions are indicated to define the significance of these observations and to provide a more detailed data base for interpretation of results.