Transplantation for B-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Phenotypic Reconstitution and B-Cell Function

In the present report we have attempted to examine immunologic reconstitution following high-dose chemo-radiotherapy and anti-B-cell monoclonal antibody (MoAb)-purged autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT). By cell-surface phenotypic analysis, the majority of patients had normal percentage of natural killer cells (NK). monocytes, and CD8 T cells at one month post-ABMT. In contrast. the percentage of CD4 T cells was reduced for at least 3 years. and the CD4:CD8 ratio reflected this imbalance. B-cell reconstitution was slightly prolonged. with normal percentage and absolute numbers of CD2O+ B cells evident by 3 months. Although B cells returned by 3 months, in vitro assessment of B-cell function demon-strated impairment of proliferative responses to either H IGH-DOSE ablative therapy and bone marrow suppor