[Squamous cell carcinoma of the palatine tonsils. Effect on the immune system in man].

Immunological monitoring was applied to 56 patients suffering from squamous cell carcinoma of the tonsils. The Immunofluorescence of oral swabs and measurements of unspecific suppressive activity of peripheral lymphocytes were tested. Autologous IgG antibodies directed against antigens of the tumor cells as well as higher levels of suppressor cells could be found in patients with carcinomas. These antibodies reacted similarly with allogeneic tonsillar carcinomas; cross reaction with other allogeneic tumor cells (bladder-kidney carcinoma) could not be detected. The findings indicate therapeutical consequences for the patients with high suppressor activity and immunofluorescence.