Principal Investigators: Mr Alister Hart, Mr John Skinner
Stream: Clinical Fellowship
Topic: Lower Limbs/Biology (Hip)
Status: Completed
It is thought CoCr ions from metal-on-metal hip replacements cause immune dysfunction in the form of T cell mediated hypersensitivity. This may be responsible for osteolysis and implant loosening. It is also thought that Co and Cr from loose metal-on-polyethylene hip replacements can cause DNA damage measured by fluorescent in situ hybiridisation (FISH) of peripheral blood lymphocytes or periprosthetic tissue.The aims of this study was to investigate the relationship between metal ion & blood dyscrasias and also assess peripheral blood T lymphocyte function in patients with known CD8 lymphopenia following metal-on-metal hip resurfacing. The results suggested that raised metal ion levels suppressed CD8+ T cells. Moreover, patients may be at risk from viral and mycobacterial infection and dysplasia.
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