Evaluation of Some Immunological Markers in Children with Febrile Illness

Abstract

Background: Acute febrile illnesses (AFIs) represent a significant world burden disease however, diagnosing of (AFIs) is challenging due to the lack of accurate, quick point-of-care diagnostic, several biomarkers have been investigated to help distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. Among these, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) or (TNFL), Matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8), and Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL) have shown promise.

Methods: Ninety participants were taken then divided into (60) with febrile patients with >=38ċ, while (30) were free from disease as a healthy control. The TNFL, MMP-8 and NGAL were determined by ELISA technique.

Result: The statistical analysis showed that TNFL significantly (P≤0.05) elevated in patients with bacterial infection other than in patients with viral infection and control. NGAL and MMP-8 significantly (P≤0.05) elevated in patients with bacterial and viral infections compared to control subjects. The results showed statistical analysis that there was a significant (P≤0.05) increase in the concentration of NGAL in females compared to males in the group of patients with viral infection.

Conclusion: TNFL level were found to be significantly different in children with bacterial infections compared to those with viral infections and control subjects. Elevated TNFL levels were more commonly associated with bacterial infections. NGAL and MMP-8 were significantly different in children and notable increase in children with bacterial and viral infections as compared with the control.