Pneumococcal antibody absorption by conjugate vaccine
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Pneumococcal serotype-specific antibody absorption by conjugate vaccine; a step forward in the diagnostic evaluation of specific polysaccharide antibody deficiency
IRAS ID
226459
Contact name
Aarnoud Huissoon
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Our immune system produces different types of antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins (Ig) which defend us against infections. The main antibodies involved are called immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgA and IgM. Measurement of immunoglobulins in the blood can give important information about status of the immune system.
Antibody deficiencies are immune system disorders characterized by deficient antibody production or defective function. Patients with Specific Polysaccharide Antibody Deficiency (SPAD), a type of immune deficiency, are susceptible to certain infections including pneumonia due to their deficient antibody response to the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae.
The standard available diagnostic laboratory test for antibody deficiencies is based on assessing the patient’s antibody response to immunisation. Specific antibody levels are measured before and 4-6 weeks after test vaccination. Vaccine responsiveness is determined by comparing pre- and post-vaccination antibody levels. Test vaccination with pneumococcal vaccines (ie: vaccines against Streptococcus pneumoniae, including Pneumovax® and Prevnar®) are widely used for this purpose.
In our laboratory, the diagnostic pneumococcal antibody testing is carried out by measuring specific IgG antibodies against Streptococcus pneumoniae. However, clinicians are faced with many challenges to interpret the results of this test because its diagnostic value can be limited. Therefore, we propose a modified test to help with the diagnostic assessment for individuals with suspected SPAD and similar forms of immune deficiency.
This study will be carried out in the Immunology laboratory, Heartland Hospital, Birmingham between October 2017 to February 2018. We will identify left-over stored serum samples from patients who underwent diagnostic vaccination challenge testing to assess immunity against Streptococcus Pneumoniae. We propose a modified test that would help with the early and accurate diagnosis of patients with impaired antibody responses. Having such a diagnostic tool would help patients greatly to receive the appropriate care without delays and minimize disease-related complications.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/NW/0612
Date of REC Opinion
17 Oct 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion