Large granular lymphocytosis associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Issue 10 (October 1988)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Samanta, A; Grant, I; Nichol, F E; Pringle, J H; Wood, J K; Campbell, A C
• Is Part Of: Annals of the rheumatic diseases. Volume 47:Issue 10(1988)
• Page Start: 873
• Page End: 875
• Publication Date: 1988-10
• Subjects: Rheumatism -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1136/ard.47.10.873
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-4967

Abstract

Abstract : A 74 year old woman with rheumatoid arthritis, hepatosplenomegaly, neutropenia, and peripheral blood lymphocytosis is described. The lymphocytes had a large granular morphology and expressed a CD3+ CD8+ Leu7+ surface antigen phenotype. They did not have natural killer cell function. Southern analysis of the lymphocyte DNA using two restriction enzymes showed a rearranged pattern for the T cell receptor beta chain gene, indicating a monoclonal lymphoproliferation. Large granular lymphocytosis is a rare and heterogeneous phenomenon, which has become more clearly characterised through the application of molecular biology techniques. Most cases appear to be forms of T cell leukaemia with a chronic benign course. The association between rheumatoid arthritis and large granular lymphocytosis is emphasised.