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Alterations of cell-mediated immune response in children with febrile seizures

T C Montelli1, A M Soares, M R Parise-Fortes

  • 1Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, School of Medicine, State University of São Paulo (UNESP), Botcatu, Brazil.

Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|June 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Children with febrile seizures often show impaired cellular immunity, with increased CD8+ cells and reduced lymphocyte response. This immune dysfunction may explain frequent infections observed in these patients.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Febrile seizures are common in children.
  • Recurrent infections are frequently observed in children with febrile seizures.
  • The underlying immunological mechanisms are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate T-cell subset distribution in children with febrile seizures.
  • To assess lymphocyte proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA).
  • To explore potential links between immune status and infection susceptibility.

Main Methods:

  • Monoclonal antibody-based T-cell subset analysis in peripheral blood.
  • Measurement of lymphocyte proliferation in response to PHA.
  • Assessment of plasma inhibitory activity on lymphocyte function.
  • Comparison between 30 children with febrile seizures and 14 age-matched controls.

Main Results:

  • 64% of patients showed increased CD8+ T-cells.
  • A low helper/suppressor T-cell ratio was found in 60% of patients.
  • Impaired lymphocyte proliferative response to PHA was observed.
  • 33% of patients had plasma with inhibitory activity on lymphocyte function.

Conclusions:

  • Children with febrile seizures exhibit impaired cellular immunity.
  • Elevated CD8+ cells and reduced lymphocyte responsiveness are key findings.
  • Immune dysfunction may contribute to the pathogenesis of febrile seizures and associated infections.

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