Evaluation of lymphocyte subgroups in children with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis

Yilmaz C., Yuca S., Yilmaz N., Öner A. C., Çaksen H.

Journal of International Medical Research, vol.37, no.3, pp.828-834, 2009 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 37 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2009
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/147323000903700326
  • Journal Name: Journal of International Medical Research
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.828-834
  • Keywords: CD4 + lymphocytes, Children, Lymphocyte subgroups, Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis
  • Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The aetiology of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) remains to be fully elucidated, although it follows infection with a hypermutant defective M-protein measles virus. This study analysed peripheral blood lymphocyte subgroups to determine their role in the pathophysiology of SSPE. It included 22 children with SSPE aged 2-15 years (patient group) and 22 age- and gender-matched healthy children (control group). In children < 6 years old, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in the proportions of lymphocytes expressing the surface markers CD3, CD8, CD19 or CD16/56, or in CD4/CD8 ratio. The proportion of CD4+ lymphocytes in SSPE patients < 6 years of age was significantly lower compared with the control group. In children ≥ 6 years old, there were no significant differences in the lymphocyte subgroups. In conclusion, these findings suggest that a low CD4+ lymphocyte count might be responsible for SSPE in younger children. Copyright © 2009 Field House Publishing LLP.