Efficacy of sublingual immunotherapy with dermatophagoides farinae drops in children with allergic rhinitis and the change of TGF-β and IL-13 mRNA level

Abstract

Objective:The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) with standardized dermatophagoides farinae drops and to examine the change of TGF-β and IL-13 mRNA level after 12 months SLIT in children with allergic rhinitis (AR). Method:Ninety-two children with AR were collected and randomly divided into two groups: SLIT group (n=62) and control group (n=30). Before and after SLIT for 6 months and 12 months, total nasal symptoms score (TNSS) and total medication score (TMS) were evaluated. In addition, the mRNA expression of TGF-β and IL-13 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of AR children after immunotherapy were examined by qRT-PCR. Result:There were significant differences (P<0.01) in symptom and medication scores between the two groups after 12 months treatment. The patients in SLIT group had fewer symptoms and lower intake of medication.The rates for well controlled, partly controlled and uncontrolled children were 45.2%, 32.3% and 22.6%, respectively. Five children (5.4%) experienced local adverse events and 1 children (1.1%) experienced mild systemic adverse events. No severe adverse events happened during the treatment. Accordingly, comparing with the baseline value, the mRNA levels of TGF-β increased significantly, and IL-10 mRNA level decreased significantly in well controlled children after 12 months treatment. Conclusion:SLIT with dermatophagoides farinae drops is efficient and safe treatment for children with HDM induced AR. The change of TGF-β and IL-13 mRNA level may be considered as an indicator for evaluating the clinical efficacy of SLIT.