Decreased helper-suppressor cell ratios following treatment with blood products: factor VIII and IX concentrates and fresh frozen plasma.

The immunologic status of three groups of multiply-transfused asymptomatic patients was evaluated. These included five with acquired inhibitors to factor VIIi treated with both factor VIII and factor IX concentrates (group A), seven with hemophilia B treated with factor IX concentrate (group B), and six with hemophilia B treated with fresh frozen plasma (group C). Mean T helper/T suppressor cell ratios (± S.E.M.) for the three groups were 0.72 ± 0.09, 1.35 ± 0.18 and 1.37 ± 0.12, respectively. All three differed significantly (p < 0.01) from the control mean ratio of 2.22 ± 0.16. In addition the mean ratio of group A patients was significantly different (p < 0.01) from that of groups B and C. An inverted ratio (< 1.00) was found in all group A patients and only one group B patient. An elevated IgG was found in 80 percent, 57 percent and 5 0 percent of each group, respectively. These immunological findings bear a striking resemblance to those of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) of homosexuals, intravenous-drug abusers, Haitian immigrants, and factor-VIII-concentrate-treated hemophiliacs. Transmission via a blood borne infectious agent seems likely.