Background: Recently, Th17 cells have been found to participate in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. IL-23 is a cytokine that may be implicated in modulating Th17 response. This study aimed at evaluating IL-23 and relating it to lung function in asthmatic children. Methods: Seventy-eight asthmatic children and 40 healthy children were evaluated. Spirometry and serum IL-23 measurement (ELISA kit) were performed in all asthmatic children. Results: IL-23 levels were higher in asthmatic than in healthy children (p < 0.001). There was a strong inverse relationship between FEV1 and IL-23 (r = –0.787). Conclusions: This preliminary study suggests that serum IL-23 could be a suitable marker of bronchial function impairment in allergic asthmatic children.

Keywords:
IL-23, Asthma, Lung function, Children
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© 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel
2012
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