[Transitory increase of OKT4+ lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of patients with lymphadenopathy syndrome treated with beta-interferon]

A therapeutic trial with IFN-beta (Hu. Interferon beta lyophilized, Sclavo S.p.A., Siena, Italy), administered thrice weekly but once monthly in six courses was performed for immune-modulating purposes in five parenteral drug addicts affected with lymphadenopathy syndrome. Each dose consisted of 12 X 10(6) international units I.V. Preliminary observations evidenced a significant increase of OKT4+ cells after the first course of therapy. No significant differences from the basal values, though, were found after the following courses, while in a control group of untreated LAS patients, a significant decrease of OKT4+ lymphocytes was observed. Partial remission of symptoms and/or reduction in size of the lymphatic masses were also achieved in all treated patients, although so far none of them can be considered as actually cured.