Dynamics of Cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, Interferon-γ) and β2-Microglobulin Content in Cases of Pneumonia in Children Who Often Suffer from Acute Respiratory Disease

The objective of the research was to study indices of cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, interferon- γ) and β2-microglobulin content in blood serum of children at the age of 3 to 8 who often suffered from acute respiratory diseases. Their dynamics before and after protocol pneumonia treatment was analyzed. Materials and methods of research. 80 children with pneumonia at the age of 3 to 8 were examined. They included 40 children who often suffered from acute respiratory diseases (the number of cases during the year was 6 and more) and 40 children who were sick not very frequently. Children of both groups received protocol therapy for pneumonia.Results of the research. More significant changes in the correlation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines by reducing the levels of IL-2 and interferon-γ on the background of increased IL-4content were observed in children who often suffered from acute respiratory diseases. This indicated switching from a cellular immune response to humoral one. Reduction of β2-microglobulin as a marker of immunosuppression was observed.Conclusions. Protocol treatment for pneumonia in children who often suffered from acute respiratory infections contributed to normalization of above mentioned cytokines and β2-microglobulin indices indicating adequate immune response to inflammation.