Abstract
In order to investigate the immune mechanisms involved in regression of canine cutaneous histicytoma (CCH), major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class-II immuno-expression and the number of T- and B-lymphocytes and macrophages were analyzed in 93 cases of CCH. MHC class-II was also studied in 16 cases of CCH by immunoelectron microscopy. All tumors expressed MHC class-II, and two major staining patterns were identified: focal juxtanuclear cytoplasmic staining and rim-like staining along the cell periphery. The MHC class-II labelling pattern and T- and B-lymphocyte infiltrates were associated with tumor regression. In regressing lesions, MHC class-II molecules shift to the cell surface and an increase of both T- and B-lymphocytes were noted. The increasing expression of MHC class-II molecules on the cell surface could be a significant factor for the onset and progression of tumour regression.
- Received December 20, 2012.
- Revision received January 28, 2013.
- Accepted January 30, 2013.
- Copyright © 2013 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved