Immune studies in dioxin-exposed Missouri residents: Quail Run

Altered cell-mediate immune functions were researched in a group of Missouri residents exposed to dioxin-contaminated soil. Cellular immune functions were analyzed in a group of residents from the Quail Run Mobile Home Park. The results of T cell phenotypes showed statistically significant alterations of percentages, but not of absolute numbers of T cell subpopulations in TCDD-exposed subjects. Exposed persons had slightly decreased percentages of T3, T4, and T11 cells. Evidence was found of depressed cellular immunity consistent with that expected from animal studies. The dioxin-exposed population showed evidence for depressed DTH responses to recal antigens.