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Tumor necrosis factor-alpha release during systemic reaction in cold urticaria
I Tillie-Leblond1, P Gosset, A Janin
1INSERM, CJF 90.06, Institut Pasteur, Lille, France.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|February 1, 1994
Summary
This study found that tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is released in patients experiencing severe reactions to cold exposure. This suggests TNF-alpha plays a role in primary cold urticaria (PCU) systemic responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Allergy
Background:
- Primary cold urticaria (PCU) involves urticaria and angioedema triggered by cold exposure.
- Mast cell mediators like histamine and prostaglandin D2 are implicated in PCU.
- The role of cytokines in PCU pathogenesis requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of cytokines, specifically tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), in primary cold urticaria (PCU).
- To compare TNF-alpha release in PCU patients with varying reaction severities and control groups.
Main Methods:
- Assessed TNF-alpha and histamine release in the efferent vein blood of PCU patients after cold immersion.
- Compared five PCU patients with three non-physical urticaria patients and three healthy controls.
- Performed skin biopsy and immunohistochemical studies using anti-TNF-alpha antibody.
Main Results:
- Histamine release was elevated in PCU patients, particularly those with systemic reactions.
- TNF-alpha was detected in PCU patients exhibiting shock-like reactions, but not in those with mild reactions or controls.
- Skin biopsies showed evidence of TNF-alpha.
Conclusions:
- TNF-alpha release is associated with severe systemic reactions in primary cold urticaria.
- Cytokines, in addition to histamine, may contribute to the pathophysiology of PCU.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise role of TNF-alpha in PCU.
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