[A comparison of some indices of innate and adaptive immunity in different types of schizophrenia]

Leukocyte elastase (LE) blood serum activity as an index of innate immunity and autoimmune reactions to brain antigens i.e. a level of autoantiboies to nerve growth factor (NGF) as an index of adaptive immunity were studied in patients with attack-like and slow progressive schizophrenia. Compared to controls, higher LE activity accompanied by a significant increase of autoantibodies to NGF titers was found in patients with attack-like schizophrenia. In slow progressive schizophrenia, only higher LE activity was detected. Correlations between immunological parameters and some clinical appearances (positive and negative disorders) and disease course peculiarities were revealed. The results suggest an involvement of different parts of immune system in pathophysiology of attack-like and slow progressive schizophrenia.