[Evaluation of selected immunologic indices in children with subglottic laryngitis]

Subglottic laryngitis (croup) is a common disease in children. Its etiology is not quite clear. Thirty children (28 boys and 2 girls), aged between 4 months and up to 5 years (mean 3.6 years), have been hospitalized for the inflammatory swelling of the subglottic space. Laboratory and allergy tests, including: immunoglobulins A, G, M, total IgE, specific IgE blood levels, blood T cell level, and NBT test have been carried out in all children. An increased IgE blood level have been noted in 15 (50%) children, and significantly increased blood level of specific IgE in 10 (33%) children of this subgroup. Blood IgA, IgG, and IgM level have been normal in all children. An increase in NBT test have been seen in 10 (33) children, and a decrease in the number of T cells in 21 (70%) children.