Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta levels in recurrent and persistent otitis media with effusion.

Abstract

Based on interleukin (IL)-1beta and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha levels in effusions, our goals were to specify either recurrent or persistent otitis media with effusion (OME) is a mid stage in the development of chronic disease and to identify the factors that have an influence on cytokine levels. Samples from groups with recurrent (n = 15) and persistent (n = 39) OME were assayed for IL-1beta and TNF-alpha. Children were also grouped with respect to age, sex, quality of effusion, and the presence of pharyngeal adenoid tissue. Tertiary referral center. In recurrent and persistent OME groups, IL-1beta was higher than TNF-alpha (P < 0.01). IL-beta was higher in recurrent OME than in persistent OME (P < 0.05). Recurrent OME seems to be closer to the chronic stage of the disease relative to persistent OME in terms of higher IL-1beta levels. Each exacerbation of acute disease in recurrent otitis media is likely to be mediated by IL-1beta. We were able to clarify that recurrent OME is a stage that occurs before chronic OME. Therefore, the prevention of acute attacks in recurrent disease would also impede long-term damage to the middle ear.