BACKGROUND: A functional defect of T regulatory cells (Treg) has been proposed as pathogenic mechanism of allergic reaction. Polysensitization is a common feature of allergic patients. AIM OF THE STUDY: It was to investigate the possible role of Treg-Th1 cytokines, in the development of new sensitizations in childhood. METHODS: Forty monosensitized (MS) children with allergic rhinitis were evaluated and followed-up for 2 years. New sensitizations were investigated. IL-10 and IFN-gamma were evaluated in in vitro experiments. RESULTS: Children remaining MS showed significant higher production of both IL-10 and IFN-gamma. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study provided evidence that IL-10 and IFN-gamma production could be defective in allergic children prone to develop polysensitization.
BACKGROUND: A functional defect of T regulatory cells (Treg) has been proposed as pathogenic mechanism of allergic reaction. Polysensitization is a common feature of allergicpatients. AIM OF THE STUDY: It was to investigate the possible role of Treg-Th1 cytokines, in the development of new sensitizations in childhood. METHODS: Forty monosensitized (MS) children with allergic rhinitis were evaluated and followed-up for 2 years. New sensitizations were investigated. IL-10 and IFN-gamma were evaluated in in vitro experiments. RESULTS:Children remaining MS showed significant higher production of both IL-10 and IFN-gamma. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study provided evidence that IL-10 and IFN-gamma production could be defective in allergicchildren prone to develop polysensitization.