Serum adenosine deaminase estimation in relation to BCG vaccination

S Thora1, P Rajsekaran, B C Chhaparwal

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, M.G.M. Medical College, Indore.

Indian Pediatrics
|October 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Serum adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels significantly increase after BCG vaccination in newborns, indicating a rise in cell-mediated immunity. This suggests ADA is a useful marker for immune response post-vaccination.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • Serum adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels correlate with T lymphocyte activity and cell-mediated immunity.
  • BCG vaccination is a crucial immunization for preventing tuberculosis, stimulating cell-mediated immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of BCG vaccination on serum ADA levels in term newborns.
  • To assess the utility of serum ADA as a biomarker for cell-mediated immunity following BCG vaccination.

Main Methods:

  • Serum ADA levels were measured in 100 term newborns at birth and 6 weeks post-BCG vaccination.
  • A follow-up was conducted with 67 of the initially enrolled subjects.

Main Results:

  • The mean serum ADA level at birth was 6.69 U/litre.
  • After 6 weeks of BCG vaccination, the mean serum ADA level rose significantly to 13.83 U/litre.

Conclusions:

  • Serum ADA levels show a significant increase after BCG vaccination in newborns.
  • Serum ADA can serve as a reliable indicator of cell-mediated immune response to BCG vaccination.

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