IMMUNOLOGICAL CHANGES IN CHILDREN WITH SOLID TUMORS AT DIAGNOSIS

Immunological changes in adults with cancer have been described. Studies concerning the immunological status in children with solid tumors are scarce. In this study, cellular and humoral immunological parameters (Total T, T4, T8 lymphocyte percentages. T4/T8 ratios, lymphoproliferative response to PHA, natural killer cell activity, IgG, IgA, IgM) have been assessed in 97 children with malignant solid tumors. Results have been statistically compared with results obtained from 16 healthy children. Total T, T4, T8 lymphocyte percentages and lymphoproliferative response to PHA were found to be lower in children with solid tumors in comparison with controls (p<0.05). In conclusion, a depression in cellular immunity has been found in children with solid tumors at diagnosis.