Correlation analysis of laboratory parameters in seasonal allergic rhinitis in the Karaganda Region

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Allergic rhinitis is a recurrent inflammation of the nasal mucosa that is triggered by various allergens and has an extremely negative impact on the quality of a patient's life. With the increasing morbidity of seasonal allergic rhinitis worldwide, the possibility of a deterioration in the course of the disease must be taken into account. Consequently, its prompt diagnosis is essential. High levels of total immunoglobulin E, eosinophil cationic protein and eosinophil count, along with appropriate clinical data, are associated with allergic rhinitis. However, studies regarding the relation of allergic reaction predictors with severity of allergic rhinitis symptoms are currently insufficient and inconsistent. <b>The objective of this study</b> was to determine the total immunoglobulin E (IgE), eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and eosinophil count in blood serum and to identify the relationship of each parameter with the severity of seasonal allergic rhinitis. <b>Methods:</b> This cross-sectional study was conducted in the regional allergological center “DiVera” which is located in Karaganda city (central Kazakhstan). In order to perform statistical analysis, we used initial levels of seasonal allergic rhinitis markers and 4-point scale aspects for assessing symptoms (Daily Symptom Score). Allergic rhinitis markers were identified by using automatic modular and immunological analyzers. The study involved 49 patients aged 18-60 years with a diagnosis of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Verification of the diagnosis was carried out on the basis of a positive allergic anamnesis, objective and subjective patients data. Statistical analysis was performed using the “Statistica” software version 13.0 for Windows. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was applied to determine the relations between the studied parameters. <b>Results:</b> The study revealed a positive direct, strong statistically significant relationship (p<0.05) of all three serological markers - immunoglobulin E (r=0.96), eosinophilic cationic protein (r=0.91), and eosinophil count (r=0.86) with symptom severity of allergic rhinitis. <b>Conclusion:</b> This correlation analysis revealed a relation of eosinophil count, total IgE and eosinophil cationic protein levels to symptom severity in seasonal allergic rhinitis. The concentration of serological markers could be an important predictor of allergic sensitization, particularly in adult patients.