Natural killer cell activity in atopic dermatitis

Natural killer (NK) cell activity against K562 cells was studied in 12 male adults with atopic dermatitis (AD). In a 4-h chromium release microcytotoxicity assay normal NK cell function and its augmentation by interferon (IFN-alpha) were observed in AD patients. Slightly higher NK cell activity was observed in patients with allergic respiratory symptoms. The role of NK cells in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis is discussed.