Th2 cytokine expression in atopic children with otitis media with effusion

Background. Otitis media with effusion (OME) is more common in atopic children. Few studies have looked for the presence of inflammatory mediators in the middle ear effusions of this population.Objectives. We hypothesize that atopic children with OME have a different inflammatory cell and cytokine profile than non-atopic children with the disease.Methods. The atopic status of 26 children with OME was determined. Using immunocytochemistry, fluid specimens were assessed for T lymphocytes, eosinophils, neutrophils, mast cells, and basophils. The expression of IL-4, II.-5, and IFN-gamma mRNA was assessed using in-situ hybridization.Results. There is a higher percentage of eosinophils, T lymphocytes and cells expressing IL-4 and IL-5 mRNA in atopic children (n = 8) compared to non-atopic controls (n = 18) (p < 0.01).Conclusion. The predominance of eosinophils, T lymphocytes and Th2 mediators in the middle ear effusions of atopic children provides strong evidence that atopy plays a role in the pathogenesis of this condition