Assessment of B and T Lymphocyte Function in Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Abstract

This study was conducted to correlate between immune system dysfunction and MDS, and to explore its relation to the risk factors of the disease. The study included 30 adult patients diagnosed with MDS based on blood picture, bone marrow examination and cytogenetic studies, then the patients were classified according to IPSS risk scoring system. Immune system assessment was done by performing the following tests: antinuclear antibodies, coombs’ test, serum protein electrophoresis and CD4/CD8 ratio in peripheral blood. We’ve found an association between inverted CD4/CD8 ratio and higher risk strata, presence of neutropenia and transfusion dependence. Regarding Humoral immune system involvement, positive coombs test was related to younger age, higher bone marrow blasts count which were statistically significant differences. Polyclonal gammopathy-as well-was found to be associated with higher bone marrow blasts count and presence of cytogenetic abnormalities. Accordingly, we’ve concluded the possible association of immune dysregulation and pathogenesis of MDS, especially higher risk category, which might help in tailoring treatment of MDS according to the patients’ immunological profile.