The effects of acute corticosteroid therapy for asthma on serum immunoglobulin levels

Immunoglobulin levels were followed in 21 nonsteroid-dependent asthmatics who required corticosteroids for an exacerbation of asthma. Twenty subjects who did not receive corticosteroids were used as controls. Baseline IgM and IgE levels were significantly higher in the corticosteroid-treated group. A fall in IgG level, maximal at 2 to 4 wk, was observed in the corticosteroid group, but not in control patients. Similarly, a significant fall in IgA was observed only in the corticosteroid group, maximal at 6 to 8 wk. There was no significant change in IgM levels in either group. Total IgE levels increased dramatically I wk after institution of corticosteroids. This was followed by a decrease to baseline or below at 6 to 8 wk. Changes in specific IgE antibody titers as measured by RAST technique revealed similar changes to those seen with total IgE. The results of the study indicate that asthma therapy with short-term corticosteroids can be associated with prolonged depressions of serum IgG, IgA levels and transient elevations of IgE levels, without apparent alterations of IgM levels.     

A Collaborative Approach to Meeting the Psychosocial Needs of Children During an Influenza Pandemic

PURPOSE. The purpose of this article is to address how those caring for children during an influenza pandemic can best respond to their psychosocial needs. CONCLUSION. Throughout 2009, the United States grappled with an influenza pandemic, including how to care for children during outbreak of illness. As disease spread, children were identified as being highly susceptible to infection. It is not known how severe future influenza outbreaks will be. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Pediatric healthcare professionals must be prepared to collaboratively address the psychosocial needs of children before, during, and after a pandemic in order to avoid fear and panic.