Abstract
Background: T helper 1 (Th1) lymphocytes produce interferon γ (IFNγ), favouring cell mediated immunity; Th2 cells secrete interleukin-4 (IL-4), favouring humoral immunity. Cytokines produced in sepsis may effect Th subset predominance and subsequent immune responses. Methods: We measured Th subsets in ten patients with severe sepsis, seven APACHE II score-matched non-septic critically ill control patients, and ten healthy subjects. Mononuclear leukocytes were isolated and Th subsets identified by flow cytometry. Results: The median (range) Th1/Th2 ratio was 0.46 (0.2–2.5) in patients with sepsis, which was significantly lower than both non-septic controls (median 2.5 (0.2–5.9), p = 0.050) and healthy subjects (median 3.9 (1.2–10.8), p = 0.01). Conclusions: In patients with sepsis, Th2 antibody mediated (humoral) immune responses predominate. This type of response may lead to fibroblast activation and ultimately immunosuppression. Modulation of Th cell subset predominance may present a novel therapeutic option in the treatment of severe sepsis.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 26 May 1998 Final revision received: 9 October 1998 Accepted: 16 October 1998
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Ferguson, N., Galley, H. & Webster, N. T helper cell subset ratios in patients with severe sepsis. Intensive Care Med 25, 106–109 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s001340050795
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s001340050795