The influence of infections on the development and severity of allergic disorders.
The frequency and severity of atopic disorders are steadily increasing, particularly in developing countries. The reason for this observation is not clear. Recent studies indicate that infections with viruses and especially with bacteria early in life may help to inhibit allergic Th2 responses by skewing the immune system towards Th1 responses. However, infections can also lead to the exacerbation of atopic disorders.
Herz
U
U
Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Central Laboratory, Hospital of the Philipps University, 35033 Baldingerstrasse, Marburg, Germany.
Lacy
P
P
Renz
H
H
Erb
K
K
D000818:Animals; D000942:Antigens, Bacterial / Q000276:immunology; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000276:immunology / Q000503:physiopathology; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000276:immunology* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000821:virology; D008070:Lipopolysaccharides / Q000276:immunology; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000276:immunology; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus / Q000276:immunology; D018089:Superantigens / Q000276:immunology; D014777:Virus Diseases / Q000276:immunology*
D000942:Antigens, Bacterial; D008070:Lipopolysaccharides; D018089:Superantigens