Nesrin Gulez, Turkey
S.B.U. Dr. Behcet Uz Children’s Education and Research Hospital Pediatric Immunology and AllergyPresenter of 1 Presentation
IMMUNOLOGIC EVALUATIONS OF OUR DOWN SYNDROME PATIENTS
Abstract
Background and Aims
Down syndrome (trisomy 21) is the most common and well-known chromosomal disease. In recent studies, it has been reported that the findings in the immune system are consistent with intrinsic defects rather than accelerated aging. T cell, B cell and Thymus dysfunction are expected immune system disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immune status of patients with Down syndrome.
Methods
A total of 96 (58 female/38 male) patients who were followed-up in our Pediatric Immunology and Medical Genetics departments were included in the study. Total lymphocyte counts, immunoglobuline levels, vaccine responses (Anti-Hbs, Anti-Tetanus antibody), number of infections, using of antibiyotic prophylaxis, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were questioned.
Results
The mean age was 5.90 ± 2.97 years. Forty-eight patients (50%) continued follow up. They were determined increase of IgG, IgA and decrease of IgM levels in times. Total lymphocyte, CD3 lymphocyte counts were found lower under 2 years, CD4 lymphocyte counts were found lower under 5 years and CD19, lymphocyte counts were found lower in all ages. There were no differences in CD8 and NK cell numbers. The antitetanose antibody positivity and the infection rate were found 44% (22/50) and 5.76 ± 2.0/year at initial presentation respectively. Using of prophylactic antibiotics and IVIG were found to have decreased frequency of infection.
Conclusions
In conclusion, since immunological disorders in Down syndrome cannot be explained by a single immunopathology; the patients should be monitored immunologically and further advanced tests should be performed.