Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: May 20, 2026
Open Peer Review Period: May 21, 2026 - Jun 26, 2026
Date Accepted: Jul 30, 2026
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
Observational Study of Children with Recurrent Infections: Protocol for the Memory B-Cells and Antibody Responses to Vaccines in Infected Children (MARVIC) Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Recurrent infections in children are a significant concern in paediatric practice, often prompting investigations into potential inborn errors of immunity (IEI), previously referred to as primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs). These infections, particularly those with sinopulmonary manifestations such as pneumonia, sinusitis, and otitis media, may suggest underlying humoral or B cell deficiencies, which are among the most common types of IEIs. Key laboratory tests for diagnosing these deficiencies include measurement of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM) and IgG subclasses (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4) levels, vaccine-specific antibody responses, and B lymphocyte enumeration. These tests assess both the quantity and functionality of humoral immunity, which is crucial for protection against various pathogens. Currently, reference intervals for these immunological parameters have not been well-defined in the Malaysian paediatric population.
Objective:
This study aims to investigate the humoral immune system among Malaysian children with recurrent infections and to establish reference values for humoral immunity.
Methods:
Blood samples will be analysed to determine levels of immunoglobulins and IgG subclasses using nephelometry, vaccine-specific antibody responses will be assessed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), and memory B cell profiles will be determined using flow cytometry.
Results:
The study, which received funding in 2024, is currently ongoing. Completion of data collection and statistical analysis is anticipated by December 2026.
Conclusions:
Comprehensive evaluation of the humoral immune profile in children with recurrent infections offers deeper insight into underlying immunological abnormalities and enhances clinicians’ accuracy in diagnosing immunodeficiency.
Citation
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