In situ characterization of B-and T-lymphocytes in basal cell carcinoma of the head and neck region

ABSTRACT

Twenty cases of basal cell carcinoma [BCC] of the head and neck region were examined immunohistochemically for the detection of T- and Blymphocytes. The results showed that the dense lymphocytic infiltrate surrounding neoplastic cells of BCC consisted chiefly of T-lymphocytes. The lymphocytic infiltrate revealed in parts a pattern of a small lymphocytic follicle with peripherally situated T cells and central B cells. The predominance of Tlymphocytes in BCC suggests a local cell-mediated immune response. However, the presence of B-lymphocytes indicates a possible humoral immune reaction. T cells may be responsible for regulating the proliferation, and thus the growth, of malignant epithelial cells in BCC