Decreased helper/suppressor cell ratios after treatment with factor VIII and IX concentrates and fresh frozen plasma.

ABSTRACT

The immunologic status of three groups of multiply transfused asymptomatic patients was evaluated. These included five with acquired inhibitors to factor VIII treated with both factor VIII and factor IX concentrates (Group A), seven with hemophilia B treated with factor IX concentrate (Group B), and six with hemophilia B treated with fresh frozen plasma (Group C). Mean helper/suppressor T cell ratios (+/- SEM) for the three groups were 0.72 +/- 0.09, 1.35 +/- 0.18, and 1.37 +/- 0.12, respectively. All three differed significantly (p less than 0.01) from the control mean ratio of 2.22 +/- 0.16. In addition, the mean ratio of Group A patients was significantly different (p less than 0.01) from those of Groups B and C. An inverted ratio (less than 1.00) was found in all Group A patients and only one Group B patient. Increased IgG levels were found in 80, 57, and 50 percent of each group, respectively. These immunologic findings bear a striking resemblance to those of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) of homosexuals, intravenous-drug abusers, Haitian immigrants, and factor VIII concentrate-treated hemophiliacs. Transmission via a blood-borne infectious agent seems likely.