Reversal of povidone-iodine-induced suppressor cell activity by sodium borohydride.

We have confirmed the generation of suppressor cells as the result of lymphocyte exposure to Betadine, a topical bacteriocide in common clinical use. Suppressor cell induction is the result of cell surface changes which we found to be completely reversible by the action of the reducing agent, sodium borohydride. These findings are important clinically, particularly as they relate to burn patients who often accumulate iodine concentrations sufficient to depress immune responsiveness. Our results suggest that suppressor cell development resulting from Betadine treatment is reversible. Experimental burn treatment procedures could easily be modified to include procedures to abolish such suppressor cell activity.