Lymphocyte transformation in extrinsic bronchial asthma.

Lymphocytes from sixteen patients with extrinsic bronchial asthma and sixteen normals were investigated for their in vitro reactivity to stimulation with phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and concanavalin A (Con A). No significant differences in maximum lymphocyte responses to PHA or Con A, either in the presence of foetal calf serum or autologous plasma, were found. The significance of these results in relation to T suppressor cell control of IgE formation is discussed.