COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF IMMUNE SYSTEM IN VARIOUS FORMS OF TICK-BORNE ENCEPHALITIS IN ACUTE PHASE

Abstract

Abstract. Multiple parameters of immune system were studied in patients with various clinical forms of tickborne encephalitis (TBE). The patients were examined in acute phase of the infection. It is shown that early immunopathogenesis of TBE, in its feverish form, corresponds to general immunological mechanisms of viral infection. Meanwhile, in focal clinical forms of TBE with favorable outcome, we revealed a deficiency of T-cell immunity, disimmunoglobulinemia, and low Th1-cytokine production. In a focal form with fatal outcome, an early hyperproduction of Th1-cytokines and complement components, as well as increased numbers of activated T-lymphocytes have been noted, along with reduced levels of cytotoxic lymphocytes. The changes observed may be considered as early prognostic criteria of a severe infection.

Keywords

• tick-borne encephalitis
• immunopathogenesis