Tertiary lymphoid structures and B-cell infiltration are IPF features with functional consequences.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Recent literature has shown the presence of B cells and autoantibodies in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) which would imply the presence of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS, sites where the immune response is triggered), yet TLS are not considered features of the histological characteristics of IPF.

Aim

This study aims to quantify the presence, size, and degree of activation of TLS in biopsied and explanted lungs from patients with early- and late-IPF, never treated with antifibrotics, and relate their presence and activity to the clinical course, disease progression, and lung inflammation.

Methods

Immunohistochestry for B cells and CD4, CD8, and CD45 cells was performed in lung tissue from IPF patients: 18 at diagnosis (early), 39 explanted (end-stage

SUBMITTER: Cocconcelli E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11502372 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature