Clinical applications of cytokines in pediatrics

Abstract

Cytokines are decisive for the regulation of the immune system as well as the renewal and maturation of the haematopoietic cells. The most important groups of substances, several of which are already produced by gentechnology, are the interferons, the interleukins and the haematopoietic growth factors. The main indications for the application of alpha-(less often beta-)Interferon in children are the juvenile larynx papillomatosis, chronic hepatitis B, viral encephalitis, and also chronic myeloic leukemia, extended haemangiomas, recurrent Langerhans cell histiocytosis and nasopharynx carcinomas. gamma-Interferon is administered successfully for chronic granulomatous disease and has recorded positive effects in therapy resistant rheumatoid arthritis, in kidney cell carcinoma and in osteopetrosis. G-CSF, GM-CSF and Interleukin 3 are the most effective haematopoietic growth factors currently in use. Through G-CSF congenital agranulocytosis (Kostmann syndrome) has become a treatable disease. Other proven applications are in the reduction of aplastic phases after chemotherapy and in critical situations of primary bone marrow failure as well as myelodysplastic syndromes, for prevention of transplant rejections after bone marrow transplantation and for mobilisation of stem cells into peripheral blood before apheresis. Erythropoietin is established in the treatment of chronic renal anaemia and is currently used in the treatment of anaemia in preterm infants. Finally, Interleukin 2 is also used for adoptive immunotherapy in children with minimal residual tumors. The future will show us, whether the spectrum of indications will expand and whether a definite benefit for sick children will result from a wider application of these substances. As long as the cost/benefit ratio for certain indications is not clear, the use of these drugs should be tested in prospective studies.