Postsplenectomy type-1 hypersensitivity response: a correlation between IL-4 and IgE serum levels.

Authors demonstrated the presence of allergic manifestations in splenectomized patients following traumatic rupture of this organ. In particular, allergic diathesis, as supported by serum IgE increase, was exclusively found in patients with preserved T helper (h)-2 lymphocyte function. Th-2 function was monitored by measuring serum levels of interleukin (IL)-4, a cytokine involved in IgE synthesis. On the opposite, in splenectomized individuals with a reduced Th-2 function as supported by lower IL-4 serum levels, no IgE increase and allergic manifestations were detectable. On these grounds, authors hypothesize that allergic manifestations may be correlated to splenectomy since its exeresis may favor the persistence of antigens in the blood. Consequentially, in patients with a preserved Th-2 function, antigenic overload may lead to IgE increase and allergy onset.