In this study we have determined the serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), soluble CD8 (sCD8) and soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) levels in children with active pulmonary tuberculosis (n = 66) and healthy controls (n = 20). Measurable serum TNF-alpha levels were detected in nine of 86 children (10.5%), all of whom belonged to the group with active disease. Serum sCD8 and sIL-2R determinations revealed a significant difference between the group with active pulmonary tuberculosis and the controls (p < 0.05). Deeper insight into the involvement of cytokines and T cells will provide a better understanding