Immunologic aspects of malignancy.
Animal experimental studies and clinical observations closely relate the development and course of malignancy with immune function. The immune apparatus serves as a homeostatic system capable of recognizing "sell" from "non-self." Neoplasia is characterized by new surface components against which immune reactivity may be directed. Subpopulations of lymphocytes are stimulated by such tumor antigens leading to both humoral and cellular responses. Immunodeficiency, the surveillance role of immune responses, and immune competition are intimately concerned with the eventual outcome of the malignant state. These concepts are examined as supplying the theoretical background for development of new therapeutic procedures. Immunotherapy in the future may offer the most effective means of controlling the neoplastic state.
Immunologic aspects of malignancy. Animal experimental studies and clinical observations closely relate the development and course of malignancy with immune function. The immune apparatus serves as a homeostatic system capable of recognizing "sell" from "non-self." Neoplasia is characterized by new surface components against which immune reactivity may be directed. Subpopulations of lymphocytes are stimulated by such tumor antigens leading to both humoral and cellular responses. Immunodeficiency, the surveillance role of immune responses, and immune competition are intimately concerned with the eventual outcome of the malignant state. These concepts are examined as supplying the theoretical background for development of new therapeutic procedures. Immunotherapy in the future may offer the most effective means of controlling the neoplastic state.