RESUMO
The profile of polyunsaturated fatty acids [PUFAs] as well as other lipid parameters were studied in 53 Egyptian children [32 males and 21 females], their ages ranged from 4-10 years. The children were divided into 2 groups: asthmatic group [n=33] and non asthmatic healthy group [n=20]. The asthmatic group was subdivided according to the new GINA guidelines into 2 groups: children with mild persistent asthma [n=16] and children with moderate and severe asthma [n=17]. Mean levels of both serum IgE and malondialdehyde showed significant increase in asthmatic children above that of the normal control children. Also, lipid profile showed significantly increased mean levels of each of total cholesterol, LDL, and phospholipids in asthmatics above those of the non asthmatic control group. However the results of triglycerides and HDL mean levels were almost similar to those of the control group. Although results of polyunsaturated fatty acids showed an increase in the mean level of omega 6 fatty acids [Linoleic and Arachidonic] in plasma of asthmatic children as compared to those of the non asthmatics, however, this increase was not significant [p=0.661]. On the other h and, omega 3 series mean levels were reduced in the asthmatic children as compared to those of the non asthmatics. The reduction was not significant [p=0.341] despite the significant reduction of docosahexaenoic acids alone. Ratios between total omega 6 [C18:2 6 + C20:4 6/total omega 3 [C18:3 3 + C22:6 3] as well as ratios between [C20:4 6]/C22:6 3] showed that the ratios were reduced for asthmatic children as compared to those of the non asthmatics; but the difference was not significant [p>0.05]. It is concluded from this study that Omega-6 fatty acids and Omega-3 fatty acids patterns may contribute to symptoms of asthma. So, dietary modification may help patients manage their asthma as well as improving their overall health. Moreover, in view of the current drug treatment regimes which are mainly palliative rather than curative, it appears logical to provide asthmatics with non-harmful approaches as an adjunct to their st and ard asthma care. Antioxidant supplementation may be a promising adjuvant therapy