Immunohistochemical identification of Langerhans cells in normal epithelium and in epithelial lesions of the uterine cervix.

Using the double label indirect immunofluorescence technique we have studied vimentin-positive cells present in normal ecto- and endocervical epithelium, subcolumnar reserve cell hyperplasia, and squamous metaplastic and dysplastic epithelium of the uterine cervix. Monoclonal antibodies to Ia- and T6-antigens were applied in the examination of the expression of these membrane markers by such cells. Our studies reveal the presence of a relatively large number of vimentin-positive and T6-positive (Langerhans) cells in normal ectocervical stratified squamous epithelium, a small number in endocervical columnar epithelium, and a larger number in subcolumnar reserve cell hyperplasia and in immature squamous metaplasia. In this respect, mature squamous metaplastic epithelium shows a great resemblance to normal ectocervical stratified squamous epithelium. In contrast with previous reports in the literature we could only demonstrate small numbers of Langerhans cells in cases of dysplasia. The clinicopathological significance of these findings is discussed.