TONSILLAR MACROPHAGES AND DENDRITIC CELLS IN RECURRENT TONSILLITIS

Characteristics of tonsillar macrophages (M-psi-s) in children, after recurrent tonsillitis were studies in vitro. Dendritic cells (DCs) were isolated from classical tissue M-psi-s by two step dissociation of tonsillar tissue. DCs and lymphocytes were released from tonsillar tissue by mechanical dissociation, while M-psi-s were obtained by the collagenase digestion of tissue fragments left after the mechanical dissociation. Pure M-psi-s and DCs enriched up to 80% were prepared by density gradient centrifugation and adherence to glass. The adherence, spreading, and ingestion properties of M-psi-s, were examined and compared to corresponding characteristics of DCs and monocytes derived from the same child. Enhanced spreading and ingestion of isolated M-psi-s were interpreted as signs of their in vivo activation by various antigens and activating stimuli released during inflammation.