Effect of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IgE on Nasal Congestion in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis

Abstract

Objective
 Allergic rhinitis is a symptomatic nasal disease provoked by exposure of the nasal mucosa to allergens, resulting in IgE-mediated inflammation. Swelling of the nasal mucosa is caused by interstitial mucosal edema due to leakage of plasma fluid and congestion of the nasal mucosal vessels and imbibition of the perivascular space. The method for determining the cross-sectional area as a function of airway distance is known as acoustic rhinometry. By using this approach, it is possible to determine the area as a function of the distance in the airways.
 Methods 
 IL and IgE levels were measured in serum and nasal lavage with enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) - Invitrogen ELISA kit. The results were expressed as optical density (OD) at 450 nm and calculated according to the OD of the standart.
 For our study A1 Acoustic Rhinometer, GM instruments Ltd., Kilwining, Scotland was chosen. Data analysis was performed after two measurements were taken: before and after nasal decongestion, with drops containing 0.1% Xylometazoline hydrochloride.
 Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 16.0 for Windows (SPSS Inc.).
 All participants, after detailed presentation of the aims, tasks and methodology of the study and the opportunity for discussion, signed an informed consent form.
 Results
 The study was conducted on the territory of the University Hospital in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria and 111 participants, aged from 19 to 84 years, were examined. Data analysis was performed after two acoustic rhinometry measurements, respectively, before and after nasal decongestion.
 Conclusion
 The published results show that there is an inverse relationship between the degree of nasal congestion (determined by acoustic rhinometry) and the serum concentration of proinflammatory cytokines.