High concentrations of 2-5A, the interferon intracellular mediator, in the blood of children with acute viral infections.

We measured the concentration of 2-5A (2',5'-oligoadenylate), an intracellular mediator of the antiviral action of interferon, in the blood of children with acute viral and bacterial infectious diseases. 2-5A concentration was found to be elevated in several children with viral diseases. This elevation seemed transient and was not specific for viral infections. We provide arguments for the use of 2-5A as a marker of the evolution of diagnosed viral diseases.