[Thrombocytopoesis in allergic asthma]

Allergic asthma is characterized by bronchial inflammation and simultaneous repair processes that results in increased airway obstruction. Recent studies indicate that platelets could play an important role in this process.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the platelet count, the percentage of reticulated platelets, plasma thrombopoietin and interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations in patients with moderate bronchial asthma.

The study was performed in 12 allergic chronic asthma patients and 12 nonallergic chronic asthma patients. Patients were treated according to the GINA 2004 recommendations for chronic moderate asthma. Seven healthy individuals served as negative controls. Blood was collected on CTAD from antecubital vein in the morning.

The platelet count was statistically higher in allergic asthma patients compared with healthy controls. In nonallergic asthma patients the platelet count was also higher but the difference was not statistically significant. The percentage of the reticulated platelets in allergic asthma patients was statistically higher as compared to nonallergic and healthy subjects, who had similiar values. The concentration of IL-6 was significantly elevated in allergic asthma patients as compared to healthy controls. There was no difference in IL-6 levels between both asthma patient groups. In nonallergic asthma patients plasma thrombopoietin levels were slightly higher, but not statistically significant, in comparison with allergic asthma patients and controls.

Our findings suggest that platelets may be involved in allergic inflammation and play a significant role in remodeling of the airways. In patients with allergic asthma we found increased reticulated platelet count suggesting enhanced megakaryocytopoiesis. Further studies on a role of platelets in the pathogenesis of asthma and their potential clinical implications are warranted and may contribute to the development of novel therapies.