• The pattern of distribution of T and B lymphocytes was investigated in a group of patients with contact, atopic, and mixed dermatitis by means of immunofluorescence and T-cell rosette tests. A significant increase (P < .001 ) in B lymphocytes with surface IgD but without changes in the lymphocytes bearing other immunoglobulins or C3 and T cells was noted in patients with contact dermatitis when compared with a control group. A significant increase (P < .001) in B lymphocytes carrying IgE and a significant decrease (P < .001) in the total numbers of T cells were noted in patients with atopic dermatitis, and a significant increase in B lymphocytes positive for IgD (P < .001) and IgE (P < .003) with a decrease in the number of lymphocytes bearing IgG were the most important changes observed in patients with mixed contact and atopic dermatitis.
(Arch Dermatol 112:1095-1100, 1976)