Local lymphocytic and epithelial activation in a case of autoimmune oophoritis.

Objective: To further define the immunological tissular modifications in premature ovarian failure (POF).

Method: The patient was followed up for premature ovarian failure and mild endometriosis associated with serum antiovarian antibodies. A laparoscopic ovarian biopsy was decided on to analyze the tissue and support the onset of immunosuppressive therapy. Immunohistochemistry was performed using monoclonal antibodies directed against T cell membrane markers, as well as activation molecules, to define the composition of the cellular infiltrate and the consequences on ovarian tissue.

Result(s): A dense infiltration of activated T lymphocytes was observed in close contact with follicular epithelium expressing HLA-DR and CD40.

Conclusion(s): This observation supports the role of cellular immunity in ovarian autoimmunity with features very similar to those reported in murine models and other human autoimmune endocrine pathologies.