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Immune responses during measles virus infection
1Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Measles (MV) infection triggers immune responses causing fever and rash, aiding virus clearance. However, it also temporarily suppresses cellular immunity, increasing infection risk and potentially leading to autoimmune issues.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Measles (MV) presents with fever and rash, coinciding with viral clearance.
- Immune responses, including antibodies and T cells, are crucial for measles recovery and immunity.
- Immune activation during measles can paradoxically lead to temporary immune suppression and autoimmune complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the dual role of the immune response in measles pathogenesis.
- To understand the mechanisms behind measles-induced immune suppression and autoimmune sequelae.
- To explore the immune basis of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) years after initial infection.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of immune responses during measles infection.
- Evaluation of cellular and humoral immunity.
- Clinical observation of measles complications.
Main Results:
- Measles immune responses correlate with fever, rash, and virus clearance.
- Generalized suppression of cellular immunity observed during measles.
- Autoimmune conditions like acute disseminated encephalomyelitis can arise.
- Inadequate immune responses may lead to severe pulmonary or CNS manifestations without rash.
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) shows altered but related immune profiles.
Conclusions:
- Measles immune response is complex, mediating both protection and pathology.
- Immune suppression during measles increases susceptibility to secondary infections.
- Understanding measles immunopathogenesis is key to managing complications like SSPE.