ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses experimental evidence for the role of suppressor cells in the potentiation of tumor growth. It also discusses alterations in suppressor function that may cause or perpetuate immunodeficiency in human neoplasia. The chapter explores malignancies involving immunoregulatory cells. It also explores the role of suppressor cells in oncogenesis. Demonstration of tumor enhancement by immunotherapy in human neoplasms is difficult, and most reports are anecdotal experiences. A study performed by the Southwest Oncology group is, however, relevant. The chapter examines immune deficiency states associated with lymphoproliferative disorders, evidence for the presence of immunoregulatory defects, and neoplasms of immunoregulatory cells. Multiple myeloma represents a monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells usually resulting in production of a single immunoglobulin or polypeptide subunit of an immunoglobulin molecule. In contrast to Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, immunologic reactivity in the patients is normal. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is characterized by the proliferation and accumulation of small, mature lymphocytes in the peripheral blood.
