Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 1-associated Optic Pathway Gliomas and Plexiform Neurofibromas.

Background/aim: Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is characterized by the occurrence of multisystem tumors, among which the most characteristic are optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) and plexiform neurofibromas (PNFs). With the development of new anticancer drugs targeting the immune system, it is important to examine the immunological status of patients with NF1. Furthermore, the immune system has been suggested as a probable modulator of NF1-associated phenotypes. The objective of this study was the analysis of lymphocyte subset populations with respect to the presence of PNFs and OPGs.

Patients And Methods: Fifty-three patients with NF1 diagnosed with OPG/PNF were analyzed for lymphocyte subpopulations.

Results: Significantly lower levels of B-cells, T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells were observed in the group of patients with PNFs compared to those with OPG.

Conclusion: Our observation may indicate a correlation between weakened functioning of the immune system and the formation of PNFs.