Lymphocyte mobilization in response to physical work in sarcoidosis. Influence on lymphocyte subpopulations, DNA synthesis and cytotoxicity.

Peripheral blood lymphocytes of nine patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis were collected before and after a standardized bicycle ergometer test. The lymphocytes were characterized by various cell surface markers as T or B lymphocytes, and functionally by mitogen- or antigen-induced DNA synthesis and by antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Physical work resulted in an increase of circulating lymphocytes. Proportionately more B lymphocytes were mobilized. The DNA synthesis of lymphocytes in response to mitogens and antigen was reduced, whereas the cytotoxicity was augmented. Compared with normals the mobilization of lymphocytes was less, and a deficiency of both T and B lymphocytes was revealed. The functional impairment of lymphocytes in the patient group persisted.