J Korean Med Sci.  2000 Jun;15(3):255-259. 10.3346/jkms.2000.15.3.255.

The role of cytokines in rhinosinusitis

• Min YG
• Lee KS

• KMID: 1128620
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2000.15.3.255

Abstract

Since the last decade, new insights into inflammatory processes have become possible by investigating the pattern of cytokines in acute and chronic sinus diseases. This review aims to update and discuss the findings of in vitro and in vivo studies concerning the role of cytokines in sinusitis and nasal polyposis. The proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1beta, interleukin-6 and the neutrophil-chemoattractant interleukin-8 may play a major role in acute sinusitis, as shown in viral and allergic rhinitis. In chronic sinusitis interleukin-3 dominates the cytokine profiles, giving support to a variety of inflammatory cells. Interleukin-5 is a key protein in the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis. Activation and survival of eosinophils in nasal polyps are thought to be regulated by interleukin-5. Further investigation of cytokine expression patterns in inflammatory sinus diseases will lead to a better understanding of their pathogenesis and to a development of new therapeutic modality.

Keyword

Sinusitis; Nasal Polyps; IL-1 beta; IL-3; IL-5; IL-6; IL-8; Cytokines

MeSH Terms

Acute Disease
Chronic Disease
Cytokines/immunology*
Human
Polyps/immunology
Rhinitis/immunology*
Sinusitis/immunology*