抄録
We have recently reported a new type of lymphocytic leukemia with the following characteristics: (1) onset in adulthood, (2) leukemic cells with T-cell properties, (3) leukemic cells with morphologically characteristic features, (4) frequent skin affection, (5) lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly, (6) no mediastinal masses, (7) subacute or chronic course, and (8) predominance among natives of Kyushu. This disease presents many intriguing aspects for research. The current problems in the investigation are as follows.
1. Expeditions are necessary for the comparative study of the T cell malignancies reported from the different places of the world.
2. More precise analysis of the past history of each patient is also needed.
3. HLA study is under way.
4. Our chromosome study suggests that 14q translocation may be significant.
5. RNA dependent DNA transcriptase is absent in the cultured leukemic cells.
6. TdT activity is present in the leukemic cells from three patients studied.
7. Fc receptor is absent in the leukemic cells in most cases.
8. The leukemic cells can be distinguished from T-ALL cells by the use of appropriate antisera.
9. Functional aspects of the leukemic cells are also of grave concern. MIF activity and suppressive effect on PWM-induced normal B-cell differentiation have been demonstrated in some cases.
10. Further work is needed for the establishment of cell lines and hybridomas.
