Operation of Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Radioimmunoassay Reference Laboratory: Coordination of the Serological Aspects of Otitis Media Field Trials

摘要

The pneumococcal reference laboratory provided serological assay data for 34 approved projects which help define the usefulness of the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. Among the projects under investigation include the use of the vaccine for patients with sickle cell anemia, Hodgkin's disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, renal failure and dialysis, multiple myeloma, lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Cooley's anemia and chronic pulmonary disease. Studies are under way in collaboration with the Bureau of Biologics to determine what, if any changes are to be made in the composition of the vaccine to improve efficacy. Studies are continuing on the use of the pneumococcal vaccine to improve immunogenicity in infants in order to optimize protection against otitis media.