[Serum IL-2 and sIL-2R concentration in children with chronic hepatitis B].

UNLABELLED: The aim of the study was evaluation of serum IL-2 and sIL-2R concentration in children with chronic hepatitis B without previous treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Investigations were performed on sera from 27 children, 13 HBsAg and HBeAg positive (group I) and 14 HBsAg positive, HBeAg negative, anti-HBe positive (group II). Serum IL-2 and sIL-2R concentrations were detected with ELISA method. RESULTS: In all examined children serum IL-2 concentrations were decreased. The mean values of sIL-2R in group I was 4,40 (from 1,78 to 15,74) and in group II was 2,60 ( from 1,59 to 4,81) ng/ ml and were statistically significant higher in HBeAg positive children (group I, p < 0.005). The mean ALT activity in this group of children was increased (mean 74 U/I) . The positive correlation between sIL-2R and ALT activity was observed in group I. CONCLUSIONS: In children with chronic hepatitis B a deficiency of Th1 mediated immunological response was observed. HBeAg/anti-HBe seroconversion seems to change the IL-2/sIL-2R balance.