Immunologic changes after diode laser inferior turbinoplasty in allergic rhinitis

Abstract

En Abstract Objectives It was suggested previously that turbinoplasty by laser improves the symptomatology of allergic rhinitis (AR) not only by a mechanical effect but also by inhibiting the local allergic reaction at the level of the inferior turbinates. The aim of this study was to determine whether the short-term immunologic effects of diode laser, when used to perform inferior turbinoplasty in AR, can also be detected at the systemic level. Patients and methods Twenty patients, seeking a treatment by laser for AR manifestations refractory to local and systemic medical therapy, were included in a prospective study. Blood picture, total immunoglobulin E, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and interferon-γ levels were assessed immediately before and 1 month after diode laser inferior turbinoplasty (DLIT). Results One month after DLIT, the total leukocytic count increased with relative eosinopenia. Total immunoglobulin E and IL-5 decreased, together with insignificant changes in IL-4 and interferon-γ. Conclusion It is not impossible that DLIT modifies the clinical course of AR not only by a mechanical effect but also by its local or even by a systemic immunologic effect. The laser modulation of T-cell functions in the engorged turbinate submucosa is a plausible biomolecular interpretation of the observed effect.

Keywords

• cytokines
• hematology
• immunology
• inferior turbinates
• interleukins
• reduction