Abstract
Problem
The aim of this study was to examine if allergic rhinitis and nasal polyposis are associated with the level of surfactant protein-A.
Methods
Sinus mucosal biopsies were performed in patients with allergic rhinitis(n=15), nasal polyposis(n=21) and controls(n=10). Immunolocalization of surfactant protein was performed with antibodies to SP-A using Streptavidin Peroxidase Conjugated Method and indirect immunofluorescence method. Blood serums were obtained from three subjects in each group for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis of surfactant protein-A.
Results
By ELISA, AR (n =15) and NP (n = 21) showed significantly decreased levels of SP-A when compared with controls (n= 10), although these two groups were not statistically significant. Immunohistochemical investigation showed intense SP-A staining in the nasal epithelium of each groups, but weak staining in patients with AR and NP.
Conclusion
We report for the first time the expression of SP-A in both diseased and normal nasal mucosa using the indirect immunofluorescence method. There was an inverse relation between surfactant protein-A levels and symptoms and signs of rhinitis in patients with AR and NP.
Significance
SP-A may play a defensive role in the chronic inflammatory diseases of upper airway. Understanding the exact role of SP-A in the upper airway diseases will help develop novel treatment approaches for sinonasal pathoses.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.