Immunological consequences of exposure to pentachlorophenol

Arch Environ Health. 1991 Jul-Aug;46(4):249-53. doi: 10.1080/00039896.1991.9937456.

Abstract

Evaluation of lymphocyte phenotype frequencies, functional responses, serum immunoglobulin levels, and autoantibodies was completed for 38 individuals (i.e., 10 families) who were exposed to pentachlorophenol (PCP) in manufacturer-treated log houses. Comparison of subjects with controls revealed that the exposed individuals had activated T-cells, autoimmunity, functional immunosuppression, and B-cell dysregulation. Autoimmunity was evidenced by elevation of TA1 phenotype frequencies and a 21% incidence of anti-smooth muscle antibody. Functional immunosuppression was evidenced by the significantly reduced responses to all mitogens tested and to allogeneic lymphocytes in the mixed lymphocyte culture test. There was a significant elevation of CD10, and an 18% increase or decrease in serum immunoglobulins was noted. A striking anomaly was the enhanced natural killer activity found in exposed females but not in males.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Autoantibodies / analysis
  • Autoimmunity / drug effects*
  • Child
  • Environmental Exposure
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins / analysis
  • Killer Cells, Natural / drug effects
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology
  • Lymphocyte Activation / drug effects*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitogens / immunology
  • Pentachlorophenol / adverse effects*
  • Sex Factors

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Immunoglobulins
  • Mitogens
  • Pentachlorophenol