Intrathecal synthesis of IgE in children with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis
2008

IgE Synthesis in Children with Eosinophilic Meningoencephalitis

Sample size: 13 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Padilla-Docal Barbara, Dorta-Contreras Alberto J, Bu-Coifiu-Fanego Raisa, Hernández Hermes Fundora, Barroso Jesús Callol, Sanchez-Martinez Consuelo

Primary Institution: Central laboratory of CSF (LABCEL), Faculty of Medical Sciences 'Dr Miguel Enríquez', Superior Institute of Medical Sciences of Havana

Hypothesis

Does intrathecal synthesis of immunoglobulin E occur during the acute phase of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis?

Conclusion

Intrathecal synthesis of IgE indicates its role in combating the parasite in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Supporting Evidence

  • All patients showed intrathecal synthesis of IgE.
  • Control patients did not show any intrathecal IgE synthesis.
  • The average cell count in CSF was 500 × 10-6 cells/L with 23% eosinophils.

Takeaway

The study found that children with a certain brain infection make a special type of antibody called IgE, which helps fight the infection.

Methodology

Thirteen patients were studied, and their cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples were analyzed for IgE levels using nephelometry.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and was limited to a specific geographic area.

Participant Demographics

Mean age of participants was 4.5 years, all diagnosed with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1743-8454-5-18

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication