Regulatory T cells and their prognostic value for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are important regulators of anti-cancer immune responses. Blood samples from 112 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were analysed at the time of diagnosis with emphasis on Treg counts (CD3+ CD4+ CD25+), complete blood count and tumour markers (SCC; CEA; α1-antitrypsin; Cyfra 21–1; C-reactive protein).
Data were related to TNM classification, and course of the disease 1 year after the end tretament. The percentage of CD8+ cells increased and the CD4/CD8 ratio decreased with tumour grade.
The ratio of B lymphocytes decreased in patients with locoregional metastases (11.25% versus 9.22%). Treg (15.2%) and CD4+ cells (45.3%) increased, while NK cells (11.8%) decreased in HNSCC patients compared to controls (9.0%, 38.1% and 15.8%, respectively).
The erythrocyte counts (4.64x1012/l versus 4.45x1012/l) and haemoglobin levels (14.58 g/dl versus 14.05 g/dl) decreased, while Treg counts (8.91% versus 15.70%) increased in patients with early recurrence.