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Appropriate response to pneumococcal vaccine in celiac sprue
M McKinley1, S Leibowitz, R Bronzo
1Department of Medicine, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA.
Patients with celiac sprue and hyposplenism have a higher risk of pneumococcal sepsis. This study found that these patients mount an appropriate antibody response to the pneumococcal vaccine, suggesting vaccination is advisable.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hyposplenism is a known complication of celiac sprue.
- Patients with hyposplenism have an increased risk of severe infections, including pneumococcal sepsis.
- Pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for asplenic individuals, but its efficacy in celiac sprue patients with hyposplenism is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the antibody response to pneumococcal vaccination in patients with celiac sprue and hyposplenism.
- To determine if pneumococcal vaccination is appropriate for this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 10 patients with documented celiac sprue.
- Measurement of pre- and post-vaccination antibody levels against Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Administration of a polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine.
Main Results:
- All 10 patients demonstrated appropriate acute antibody responses following vaccination.
- The vaccine was well-tolerated in this cohort.
Conclusions:
- Patients with celiac sprue and hyposplenism mount an effective antibody response to pneumococcal vaccination.
- Routine pneumococcal vaccination should be considered for all patients with celiac sprue.
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