[Dynamics and significance of immunoglobulin E (IgE) as an immunological parameter in squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity and pharynx].

Disorders of the immune system are supposed to be a factor of tumour pathogenesis. A close correlation of tumour activity and immunoglobulin dynamics (IgE) was described in a number of malignant tumours. In patients with squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity, the oropharynx and the hypopharynx (n = 80, male), we investigated IgE level changes in relation to tumour growth during the treatment and follow-up period of 2 years. The study group comprised patients with inactive tumours, active tumours and those with a lethal outcome. Enzyme immunoassays were used for IgE determination. Prior to any type of therapy, mean IgE levels were elevated in all patients showing large interindividual variations. No significant prognostic value could be deduced from pre- and posttreatment levels. However, in patients with tumour recurrences sudden IgE level changes were observed (P less than 5%), as well as drastically decreasing ans low IgE levels in patients with tumour-induced cachexia.