Failure of a large dose of vitamin A to enhance the antibody response to tetanus toxoid in children

Am J Clin Nutr. 1980 Feb;33(2):212-7. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/33.2.212.

Abstract

Field studies to determine the effects of a large dose of water miscible vitamin A on selected parameters of children's immunological function were completed in rural Bangladesh. There was no difference between vitamin A treated or control groups in tetanus antitoxin responses after tetanus toxoid immunization or in skin test reactivity to common antigens. Subsequent studies with mice demonstrated vitamin A dose-related antitoxin responses, but the animals required amounts of vitamin that would be likely cause undesirable side effects if administered in similar doses to children.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibody Formation / drug effects*
  • Bangladesh
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Intradermal Tests
  • Mice
  • Tetanus Toxoid / immunology*
  • Vitamin A / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin A / adverse effects
  • Vitamin A / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Tetanus Toxoid
  • Vitamin A