[Topical eosinophil responses after allergen challenge in patients with nasal allergy]

We performed a study of eosinophil migratory responses in nasal lavage fluid from patients with nasal allergy after allergen challenge. We also measured the concentration of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and histamine in nasal lavage fluid after the challenge. The concentrations of ECP and histamine in nasal lavage fluid increased after allergen challenge. The total number of cells, eosinophils and the ratio of EG2 positive eosinophils also increased after the challenge. These responses were enhanced in the group with severe symptoms. Furthermore, the ratio of EG2 positive eosinophils was increased even in the group with mild symptoms. In some cases, the concentration of ECP and the ratio of EG2 positive eosinophils increased again 6-8 hours after allergen challenge. Our results suggest a possible relation between the activation of eosinophils and the nasal symptoms of nasal allergy.