Skin thickness score in systemic sclerosis: an assessment of interobserver variability in 3 independent studies.

Objective: Using data from 3 independent studies, to quantify the interobserver reliability of semi-quantitative skin scoring methods (the original and the modified Rodnan skin thickness scores) used to assess the degree and extent of cutaneous thickening in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Method: Interobserver variability of the original Rodnan skin thickness score method (cutaneous thickness assessed in 26 body surface areas using a 0-4 scale) was evaluated in one study. The modified Rodnan method (cutaneous thickness assessed in 17 body surface areas using a 0-3 scale) was evaluated in 2 studies.

Null cell identification and characterization with OKT16: an anti-p40 monoclonal antibody.

A murine monoclonal antibody, OKT16, specific for human lymphocytes of T lineage, was isolated by standard immunization and hybridization techniques. The distribution of the antigen defined by OKT16 was similar to the antigen reactive with monoclonal antibodies 3A1 and WT1. This identity of antigen targets was confirmed in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay system and by sequential immunoprecipitation.

Distinct classes of human T-cell activation antigens.

The characterization of three groups of antigens expressed by activated human T lymphocytes and detected by monoclonal antibodies is reported. Antigens defined by OKT19, OKT21, and OKT22 do not appear on in vitro activated T cells until increases in DNA synthesis become apparent and are not detected on most Interleukin 2 (IL-2)-independent cell lines and normal peripheral blood lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes. Cell surface molecules reactive with the monoclonal antibodies OKT23 and OKT24 are displayed prior to any notable increase in DNA synthesis and are present on IL-2 independent cell lines, irrespective of lineage.

Patterns of antigenic expression on human monocytes as defined by monoclonal antibodies.

A series of seven monoclonal antibodies directed at determinants on human peripheral blood monocytes were produced and characterized. The antibodies were separated into three groups based on cell distribution and percentages of monocytes bearing antigen. Hybridoma antibodies, termed OKM1, OKM9, and OKM10, recognized antigen(s) expressed on the majority of adherent monocytes, null cells, and granulocytes.