Cyclic adenosine monophosphate‐phosphodiesterase (cAMP‐PDE) in lymphocytes from patients with stage III and IV squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

In vivo skin tests using multiple recall and primary antigens such as dinitrochlorobenzine (DNCB) have established that there is decreased cellular‐mediated immune response in patients with squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. In vitro testing of lymphocytes using blastogenic mitogens as a measure of lymphocyte function has not always shown a statistical difference between patients and controls. cAMP‐PDE was assayed in lymphocytes from normal controls ‐ patients with benign conditions in various age groups. No significant difference was found in the specific activity (V_max) or affinity (K_m) in these groups. The mean average was used as a normal control value. In lymphocytes from untreated patients with Stage III and IV squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck, the V_max and K_m of cAMP‐PDE were higher than the controls. This difference was statistically significant. Postoperative values were also determined but were not statistically different. There were no differences found in blastogenesis in these two groups.