Immune status of full-term small-for-gestational age neonates in India.

The immune status of 25 full-term small-for-gestational age neonates was studied and compared with another 25 term appropriate-for-gestational age neonates, who served as controls. It was observed that the term SGA's had an altered immunological profile. The lymphocyte percentage was low. Cellular immunity as assessed by CD4 and CD8 subset of T-cells, and their ratio was deranged. IgG levels were lower in SGA neonates and showed a linear relation with birth weight. IgM and IgA levels were not affected in SGAs. Complement C3 levels were significantly lower in the SGA neonates. The SGAs are allegedly more prone to infections and this deranged immune status could be the underlying explanation for the predisposition.