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Pneumococcal infections in high-risk and immunocompromised hosts
Olarn Prommalikit1, Krisana Pengsaa, Usa Thisyakorn
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand. drolarnp2002@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, it is responsible for invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) (e.g. meningitis, bacteremic pneumonia and bacteremia) and non-IPD (e.g. pneumonia, acute otitis media, and sinusitis). IPD is preceded by nasopharyngeal colonization with high incidence of disease among young children, the elderly, persons with underlying medical conditions and immunocompromised hosts. The term "immunocompromised host" is generally applied to a variety of patients with various immune defects. The factors that contribute to the development of IPD include host immunity (specific and innate), genetic and environment. Specific defects in host responses to pneumococcal infections may due to very young age, deficiencies in levels of antibodies and complement factors, and splenic dysfunction. The combinations of these defects contribute to the increased rates of IPD. The immunocompromising and other conditions that predispose to pneumococcal disease were described.
Insights
Streptococcus pneumoniae causes significant global disease, particularly invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Understanding risk factors like immunocompromised status is key to preventing infections in vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major global pathogen causing significant morbidity and mortality.
- It is responsible for invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and non-IPD, with high incidence in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Nasopharyngeal colonization precedes IPD, highlighting the importance of understanding host-pathogen interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the factors contributing to the development of invasive pneumococcal disease.
- To elucidate the role of host immunity, genetics, and environmental factors in pneumococcal infections.
- To detail immunocompromising conditions predisposing individuals to pneumococcal disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Streptococcus pneumoniae epidemiology and pathogenesis.
- Analysis of host-related factors, including immune status, age, and genetic predispositions.
- Identification of specific immune defects and conditions associated with increased IPD risk.
Main Results:
- Invasive pneumococcal disease development is influenced by a combination of host immunity (innate and specific), genetic, and environmental factors.
- Specific host responses to pneumococcal infections can be compromised by factors such as young age, antibody deficiencies, complement factor deficiencies, and splenic dysfunction.
- Immunocompromised hosts and individuals with specific underlying medical conditions exhibit higher rates of IPD.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the complex interplay of host factors is crucial for preventing and managing Streptococcus pneumoniae infections.
- Identifying and addressing specific immune defects can mitigate the risk of invasive pneumococcal disease.
- Further research into host-pathogen dynamics in immunocompromised populations is warranted.
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