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[Anti-T in children]
Insights
Anti-T antibodies were found in 24.8% of newborns, potentially causing hemolysis. Antibody levels in children aged 1-17 years reached adult levels by age four.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- The Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen (T-antigen) is a significant red blood cell antigen.
- Anti-T antibodies can be associated with hemolytic transfusion reactions and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of anti-T antibodies in different age groups, including newborns, children, and adults.
- To investigate the potential role of anti-T antibodies in neonatal hemolysis.
- To understand the developmental trajectory of anti-T antibody levels from infancy to adulthood.
Main Methods:
- Sera from 245 newborns, 165 older children (1-17 years), and 50 adults were analyzed.
- Antibody levels against the T-antigen were quantified using serological methods.
Main Results:
- Anti-T antibodies were detected in 24.8% of newborn sera.
- The presence of anti-T antibodies in newborns may explain previously unexplained hemolytic episodes.
- Anti-T antibody levels in children aged 1 year were comparable to adult levels by age 4.
Conclusions:
- Neonates can possess anti-T antibodies, suggesting a potential link to hemolysis in this population.
- The development of anti-T antibody levels is a progressive process during childhood, reaching adult levels by age four.
Abstract:
In the serum of 245 newborn children, 165 elder children, and 50 grown-up persons, the antibody against the antigen T (Thomsen-Friedenreich-antigen, Transformation-antigen, T-receptor) has been determined. In 24,8% of the newborn, it was possible to find anti-T, which might be a cause of so far unclear hemolysis in this age. The investigation of sera from children between 1 and 17 years has shown, that anti-T is already present in children aged one year and reaches the level it usually has in grown-up people at the age of 4.