Inflammatory patterns in allergic rhinitis

摘要

Allergic rhinitis results from allergen-triggered early and late responses that are mediated by an array of inflammatory cells and mediators. Exposure to allergen induces the proliferation of T-helper type 2 (Th2) lymphocytes in allergic individuals leading to the subsequent release of a characteristic combination of cytokines that promotes IgE and mast cell production. Within the allergic epithelium, there is proliferation of mucosal mast cells that express IL-4, IL-5, IL-6 and tryptase. The resultant inflammatory mediators and cytokines enhance endothelial expression of adhesion molecules, such as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. Chemoattractants, such as eotaxin, RANTES and IL-5, are responsible for the characteristic infiltration of the nasal mucosa by eosinophils, basophils, mast cells and Th2 lymphocytes that is seen in the late-phase allergic response. 2006 The Authors.