Newswise — The ability to predict which individuals would respond adversely to smallpox (variola major) vaccination may be possible according to data presented by Malka Rais, M.D., Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., at the 61st Annual Meeting of American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology (ACAAI).
Global eradication of smallpox ended the need for routine vaccination around 1972, however, the growing threat of bioterrorism may lead to its re-introduction for the purpose of protecting the population from an attack. Some individuals are in need of protection of the vaccine as those with compromised immune systems had, in the past, suffered serious side effects.
Dr. Rais captured a biochemical profile of ten recipients of the smallpox vaccine in an effort to develop a predictive marker for side effect susceptibility. Blood specimens were taken from 10 subjects prior to their receiving the smallpox vaccine and Dr. Rais measured four cytokines (biochemical signals in the blood that influence the immune reactions) after challenging the serums with tetanus and diphtheria. The vaccination sites were also watched and measured. The size and duration of the vaccination lesion corresponded to the blood responses to tetanus and diphtheria. Interferon-gamma and interleukin-2 levels increased while interleukin-10 decreased.
The results support the rationale for use of a simple blood assay to observe these cytokines and predict whether individuals will launch an adequate response to the vaccine. If the results can be reproduced in a larger cohort study, the method would be an inexpensive and easy to perform clinic test that could avert disaster for some individuals.
The ACAAI is a professional medical organization, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill., comprised of 4,963 qualified allergists-immunologists and related health care professionals. The College is dedicated to the clinical practice of allergy, asthma and immunology through education and research to promote the highest quality of patient care.
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