Medical expert of the article
New publications
T-lymphocytes-suppressors (CD8) in the blood
Last reviewed: 18.10.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Normally, the relative amount of T-lymphocytes-suppressors in the blood in adults is 17-37%, the absolute amount is -0.3-0.7 × 10 9 / l.
T-lymphocytes-suppressors inhibit the immune response of the body, they inhibit the production of antibodies (of various classes) due to delayed proliferation and differentiation of B-lymphocytes, as well as the development of delayed-type hypersensitivity. With a normal immune response to ingestion of a foreign antigen, the maximum activation of T suppressors is observed after 3-4 weeks.
An increase in the number of CD8-lymphocytes in the blood indicates a lack of immunity, a decrease - about the hyperactivity of the immune system. The ratio of helper and suppressor in the peripheral blood - the CD4 / CD8 index - is of major importance in assessing the state of the immune system. Reduction of the function of T-suppressors leads to the predominance of the stimulating effect of T-helpers, including those B-lymphocytes that produce "normal" autoantibodies. At the same time, their quantity can reach a critical level, which can cause damage to the body's own tissues. This mechanism of damage is characteristic for the development of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.