Relative and absolute numbers of T lymphocyte subpopulations and NK cells in male population in relation to age

Using BMA monoclonal antibodies and fluorescent microscope, percentages and absolute numbers of lymphocytes, T cell subsets and NK cells were enumerated in peripheral blood from 126 healthy men. Although absolute numbers of total lymphocytes did not differ according to age, the numbers and percentage of natural killer (NK) cells showed positive interrelationship with age. The percentage but not absolute numbers of cells reacting with BMA 030 (CD3) and BMA 040 (CD4) antibodies were significantly increased only in groups aged of 20-29 yrs and 30-39 yrs. The percentage and number helper/inducer T cells (CD4) were comparable in the four groups of subjects. These results indicate that peripheral lymphocyte populations and T cell subsets and NK cells remarkably vary in healthy men over a wide range of ages.