Table 2.
Comparison of immune alterations between pediatric and adult COVID-19
| Parameter | Pediatric COVID-19 | Adult COVID-19 |
|---|---|---|
| ACE2 expression | Low levels | High levels |
| Type I interferon | Rapidly elevated upon infection | Delayed response |
| Lymphocytes | Normal or high counts | Decreased |
| Cytotoxic T cells | Normal or high levels | Decreased |
| Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies | High titres | Relatively low titres |
| Neutrophil infiltration | Low | High |
| Cytokine storm | Not common | Seen in patients with moderate and severe illness |
| Anti-inflammatory cytokine and regulatory T cells | High | Low |
| Severe disease | 1% | 10–20% |
ACE2 angiotensin-converting enzyme, SARS-CoV-2 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2