Abstract
Abstract Rationale: The role of the immune response to caterpillar exposure is not well described. Methods: Distributions of blood T and B lymphocytes, monocytes (CD1d+), levels of serum Igs(IgM, IgG, IgA, IgE), and cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-4, TNF-α) were studied in an allergic asthmatic serum IgE+ (181 IU/mL) adult who was exposed to the caterpillar, Halysidota harrisii Walsh, 1864. Results: Numbers of CD4+ T cells, CD45 RA+ T cells, CD25 + cells, CD19+ B cells, and CD1d+ monocytes decreased (20-33%) one week post reaction, while CD8+CD60+ T cells and CD23+ cells decreased 48 hrs (33, 74%) post reaction. In contrast, numbers of CD16/56+ NK precursor cells increased (60%) 12 hr, then decreased (65%) 48 hr post reaction; other lymphocyte subsets were unaffected. Serum IgM, IgG and IgA were normal; however, serum IgE levels were elevated 2 hrs post reaction (15%), and returned to pre-exposure levels by 24-48 hrs. High levels of IFN-γ (187-319 pg/mL) and TNF-α (549-749 pg/mL) were detected in serum 24-36 hrs and 3.5-24 hrs post reaction, respectively. In contrast, levels of IL-4 were undetected (<1.0 pg/mL) in serum at all time points. Conclusions. Caterpillar exposure may result in a variety of clinical reactions including increased serum IgE levels, blood CD16/56+ NK precursor cells, and cytokines. Understanding immunomodulation in caterpillar exposure will provide better insight and mechanisms of caterpillar contact and tailor more effective therapeutic intervention.
Published Version
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