IMMUNOLOGICAL PATTERNS IN CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME: IS THERE A TEMPORAL TREND?

Down syndrome is associated with an increased susceptibility to infections due to a deficiency of specific and nonspecific immunity. Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze the temporal trends, if any, of some variables related tothe immunological status of children affected by Down syndrome. Result: in the first 5 years of life, we observed a progressive decrease in the medium values of lymphocytes, CD4+ and plasma zinc levels, and an increase in CD8+, immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M and Natural killer, but generally without exceeding the interval of normality. Conclusions: in Down syndrome children, the immune cellular status is similar to the normal population as far as white blood cell, lymphocyte, CD4+, CD8+, natural killer and immunoglobulins are concerned. Plasma level of zinc is normal from birth until 5 years but with a temporal trend of progressive reduction. This observation supports the hypothesis that a pharmacological supplementation may be necessary in Down syndrome children only after 5 years of age.