Age-related decline of immune response to BCG vaccine in children
Author Information
Author(s): Anuradha B, Santosh CM, Hari Sai Priya V, Suman Latha G, Murthy KJR, Vijaya Lakshmi Valluri
Primary Institution: LEPRA Society – Blue Peter Research Center, Hyderabad, AP, India
Hypothesis
The study aims to ascertain the need for a booster at a later age as indicated by in vitro release of IFN-γ while evaluating Ag85A as an antigen.
Conclusion
The study found that BCG is effective in children, but its effectiveness may decrease with age, suggesting a potential need for a booster.
Supporting Evidence
- 79% of vaccinated children showed positive T cell responses.
- The incidence of TB was highest in the 13-14 year age group.
- Significant differences in IFN-γ levels were observed between different age groups.
Takeaway
The BCG vaccine helps protect kids from tuberculosis, but as they grow older, it might not work as well, so they might need another shot.
Methodology
The study included 90 healthy children and 25 with tuberculosis, measuring T cell responses and IFN-γ levels using flow cytometry and ELISA.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the retrospective nature of data collection and reliance on parental reporting for vaccination history.
Limitations
The study was limited by the small sample size and the inability to perform tuberculin skin tests due to ethical constraints.
Participant Demographics
Children aged <12 years, including 45 with BCG scars and 45 without, plus 25 with confirmed tuberculosis.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0008
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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