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Presence of interferon during bacterial otitis media
Abstract:
To examine the possibility that interferon (IFN) production plays a role in otitis media, specimens of middle ear fluid (MEF) were cultured for bacteria and viruses and assayed for IFN. Twenty (33%) of 81 MEF specimens from children attending a pediatric clinic contained 50-600 units of IFN/ml. Characterization of high-titered samples by cell species specificity, stability at pH 2, nonspecificity for virus, and cell-bound antiviral activity showed the major properties of IFN. With or without the addition of antibody to IFN to 88 specimens of MEF before viral culture, viruses were recovered from only four specimens (5%) whereas bacteria were isolated from 62 specimens (70%). IFN was present in most MEF specimens from which bacteria were isolated. Among the MEF specimens that contained bacteria and IFN, there was no association with a particular bacterial species.
Insights
Interferon (IFN) is present in middle ear fluid (MEF) of children with otitis media, suggesting a role in the condition. IFN was found in most bacterial infections, but not linked to specific bacterial types.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Otolaryngology
- Virology
Background:
- Otitis media is a common childhood infection.
- The role of interferon (IFN) in otitis media pathogenesis is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of IFN in middle ear fluid (MEF) from children with otitis media.
- To explore the relationship between IFN, bacterial, and viral infections in MEF.
Main Methods:
- MEF specimens were collected from 81 children.
- Samples were cultured for bacteria and viruses and assayed for IFN.
- IFN characteristics were determined.
- Viral cultures were performed with and without IFN antibody.
Main Results:
- IFN was detected in 33% of MEF specimens (50-600 units/ml).
- Detected IFN exhibited major IFN properties.
- Bacteria were isolated from 70% of MEF specimens, while viruses were recovered from only 5%.
- IFN was present in most bacterial-infected MEF samples, irrespective of bacterial species.
Conclusions:
- IFN is present in the middle ear fluid of children with otitis media.
- IFN may play a role in the host's defense against bacterial infections in otitis media.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise role of IFN in otitis media.