Effects of nitrite use on lymphocyte mitogenesis in homosexual men.

Immune function in 97 homosexually active men (none of whom had HIV infection) was assessed. Data revealed that mitogenesis in those who used volatile nitrites compared to those who did not was higher at 72 h but that there was no difference between the groups at 96 h. In those who had high as compared to low nitrite use, mitogenesis was higher at 72 h but decreased significantly by 96 h. These data support previous suggestions that immunosuppressive effects of nitrites alone cannot account for the development of Kaposi's sarcoma in homosexual men with HIV infection.