Identification of mononuclear cells in situ in skin lesions of lichen planus

Abstract

Cryostat sections of lesional skin of [human] lichen planus were examined for receptors for sheep erythrocytes (T [thymus-derived] lymphocytes), Fc.gamma. and C3b [subunit of 3rd component of complement] receptors (B [bone marrow-derived] lymphocytes and macrophages) and C3d (B lymphocytes). The indicator cells were applied using a closed chamber technique. The combination of the closed chamber technique and treatment of the sheep erythrocytes with a strong sulfhydryl reagent enabled the detection of T lymphocytes by their membrane receptors in situ. T lymphocytes were the predominant mononuclear cells in the dermal infiltrate, with less macrophages and only a few B lymphocytes.