Characterization of lymphocytes in bronchial lavage fluid from monkeys.

At least two populations of lymphocytes can be identified in primate lung washings, one forming rosettes with SRBC and another forming rosettes with erythrocyte-antibody-complement complexes. The response to mitogens by cells from lavage fluid is similar to spleen and blood lymphocytes. The distribution of lymphocytes in pulmonary lavage fluid is similar to that found in the peripheral blood. The identity of lymphocyte populations in respiratory fluids has relevance in understanding the immunologic capabilities of the primate respiratory tract.