THE IMPACT OF LOCAL AND SYSTEMIC IMMUNE RESPONSES ON CHILDREN'S RESPIRATORY ALLERGIES AND STRATEGIES FOR OPTIMAL TREATMENT

Abstract

Based on literature data and the results of our own scientific research, the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of a number of diseases included in the group of respiratory allergies have been analyzed. Special attention is paid to allergic inflammation and mediators of intercellular interaction—cytokines. Cytokines are secreted glycosylated polypeptides that regulate and determine the nature of immune responses. A key role in the pathogenesis of respiratory allergies in pediatric practice is played by the imbalance of cytokine levels involved in allergic inflammation.

Alterations in indicators related to phagocytic activity, lysozyme, immunoglobulins, and lymphocyte subpopulations indicate pathological reactions in nonspecific defense processes, a decrease in local and systemic immunity, which also determines the severity of the disease course and necessitates the use of additional corrective methods in children.

Pronounced changes in cytokine profile indicators dictate the need to include immunocorrection methods in the scheme of comprehensive therapy and to assess the effectiveness of the treatment provided.

The immunomodulatory effect of drugs is manifested in an increase in T-lymphocyte counts, restoration of leukocyte bactericidal activity, influence on humoral factors (activation of the complement system, increase in total and activated B-lymphocytes), and phagocytosis.

Respiratory allergies remain among the most common allergic diseases in childhood. To develop adequate therapeutic methods, it is necessary to continue detailed studies of pathogenesis, including the cytokine system. The emergence of new knowledge about disease pathogenesis will allow expanding the spectrum of therapeutic options.