Some features of hematological parameters and production of cytokines regulating inflammation in allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND: Allergic rhinitis is a common IgE-mediated disease. Multiple mechanisms are involved in the regulation of IgE synthesis, and cytokines produced by immune cells play an important role in this process. In addition, the study of the features of immunological reactivity in seasonal allergic rhinitis is of interest both for getting new data about the pathogenesis of the disease and optimization of the treatment.

AIMS: This study aimed to determine the cytokine status and hematological parameters in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis outside the exacerbation period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 43 adult patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (remission stage) and compared them with 47 healthy individuals. Patients with perennial symptoms and/or sensitization to perennial allergens were excluded. Complete blood cell count and serum interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), total immunoglobulin (Ig) E, and eosinophil cationic protein levels were measured.

RESULTS: The remission stage in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis is characterized by higher serum levels of total IgE and IL-8 compared with the healthy group. The normal serum total IgE level of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis in remission is associated with activation of the monocyte–macrophage link (increased serum levels of MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, and absolute and relative numbers of monocytes). Increased serum total IgE level is associated with the predominant signs of the Th2 phenotype of the immune response (increased serum levels of IL-4 and IL-5).

CONCLUSIONS: The immune reactivity of patients with natural remission of seasonal allergic rhinitis is characterized by Th2 phenotype features if the serum level of IgE is increased and features of activation of monocyte–macrophage system if the level of IgE is normal.