SERUM TNF-ALPHA, SCD8 AND SIL-2R LEVELS IN CHILDHOOD TUBERCULOSIS

In this study we have determined the serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), soluble CD8 (sCD8) and soluble interleukin-2 receptor (s IL-2R) levels in children with active pulmonary tuberculosis (n=66) an d healthy controls (n=20). Measurable serum TNF-alpha levels were dete cted in nine of 86 children (10.5%), all of whom belonged to the group with active disease. Se,rum sCD8 and sIL-2R determinations revealed a significant difference between the group with active pulmonary tuberc ulosis and the controls (p<0.05). Deeper insight into the involvement of cytokines and T cells,vip provide a better understanding of the pat hogenesis of tuberculosis in children.