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HLA frequency in patients with recurrent acute otitis media
O Kalm1, U Johnson, K Prellner
1Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Genetic factors may influence recurrent acute otitis media. This study found a link between the HLA-A2 antigen and increased susceptibility to this common childhood ear infection.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
Background:
- Clinical observations suggest hereditary factors contribute to susceptibility in children with recurrent acute otitis media.
- Established links exist between Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) antigen frequencies and various disease susceptibilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequencies of specific HLA antigens in children diagnosed with recurrent acute otitis media.
- To compare these HLA antigen frequencies with those found in a healthy control group from the same geographical region.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of HLA antigen frequencies in 45 patients with recurrent acute otitis media.
- Comparison of antigen frequencies against a control group from the same district.
- Prospective follow-up of subgroups of children with and without acute otitis media.
Main Results:
- The HLA-A2 antigen was significantly more prevalent in patients with recurrent acute otitis media (80%) compared to controls (56%).
- A high proportion (91%) of a prospectively followed subgroup with recurrent otitis media were HLA-A2 positive.
- The HLA-A3 antigen showed a lower frequency in patients with recurrent otitis media (11%) versus controls (28%).
Conclusions:
- The study indicates a significant association between the HLA-A locus and recurrent acute otitis media.
- Findings suggest that genetic factors, specifically related to the HLA-A locus, play a role in the susceptibility to recurrent acute otitis media in children.