Clinical and experimental allergy : journal of the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology
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Heparin-related immediate-type hypersensitivity reactions like urticaria, angio-oedema or bronchospasm are very rare, and only a few cases of anaphylaxis-like responses because of heparin have been described. However, the mechanisms underlying these reactions and the role of mast cells in their pathogenesis have not been elucidated. ⋯ In conclusion, we report the first case of heparin-induced anaphylaxis confirmed by an elevated level of mature tryptase in serum. Following skin tests, the patient was treated with danaparoid during haemodialysis sessions three times a week without any adverse effects. Because of increasing use of heparin in daily medical practice, physicians should be aware of possible immediate hypersensitivity reactions to this medication and know how to diagnose and treat them.
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Different subsets of dendritic cells (DCs), identified in mouse spleen by their differential expression of CD8 alpha, can induce different T-helper (Th) responses after systemic administration. CD8 alpha(-) DCs have been shown to preferentially induce Th type 2 (Th2) responses whereas CD8 alpha(+) DCs induce Th1 responses. ⋯ CD8 alpha(-) DCs are superior compared with CD8 alpha(+) DCs in inducing Th2 responses and eosinophilic airway inflammation in the Th2-prone environment of the lung.
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The collectin surfactant protein D (SP-D) confers protection against pulmonary infection and inflammation. Recent data suggest a role for SP-D in the modulation of allergic inflammation. ⋯ SP-D may be critical for the modulation of early stages of allergic inflammation in vivo.