Regulatory T cells and CD20+ B cells in pediatric very severe aplastic anemia: possible clinical markers for evaluating the therapeutic efficacy and prognosis

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the immune status of children with very severe aplastic anemia (VSAA), and evaluate the frequencies of CD20+ B cells and Regulatory T cells (Tregs) as potential markers for evaluating the therapeutic efficacy and prognosis. Methods: We systematically analyzed CD20+ B cells and Tregs using Flow Cytometry in 36 children with VSAA (14 newly diagnosed cases and 22 cases in remission after therapy with HDIVIG + r-ATG + CSA). Results: In newly diagnosed VSAA patients, the percentage of CD20+ B cells was higher than that in healthy children (P