Tumor necrosis factor alpha in allergic rhinitis

To evaluate the role of tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF alpha] in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis [AR], serum TNF alpha level was determined in 45 patients with AR clinically diagnosed compared to 10 healthy controls. The mean serum TNF alpha levels in AR patients were significantly higher than controls, more in severe followed by moderate then mild AR patients. Significant difference was found between the mean serum TNF alpha level in severe and moderate AR patients, respectively, compared to controls with no significant difference as regards mild AR patients compared to controls. Thus, TNF alpha could be considered as a valuable parameter in the pathogenesis of AR as well as in relation to the severity of this condition