[Cell-mediated immunity study by skin testing in 129 critically ill patients (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Critical Care Medicine

Context:

• Delayed hypersensitivity skin testing assesses cellular immune function.
• Critically ill patients represent a diverse population with varying immune statuses.

Purpose:

• To evaluate delayed hypersensitivity skin test responses in critically ill patients.
• To identify patient groups with diminished immune responses.

Summary:

• 129 critically ill patients underwent delayed hypersensitivity skin testing using six antigens.
• Significant reductions in delayed hypersensitivity were observed in patients with suspected immunodeficiency, chronic respiratory insufficiency, and overwhelming sepsis.
• No correlation between delayed hypersensitivity and prognosis was found in the respiratory insufficiency or sepsis groups.

Impact:

• Highlights impaired cellular immunity in specific critically ill patient populations.
• Suggests potential for immune status assessment in critical care.
• Informs understanding of immune dysregulation in severe illness.