Interferon-gamma and IL-10 may protect from allergic polysensitization in children: preliminary evidence.

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.