TRAVEL TO SUNNY COUNTRIES IS ASSOCIATED WITH CHANGES IN IMMUNOLOGICALPARAMETERS

Under laboratory conditions, various studies have shown that changes i n immunological parameters must be expected after exposure to ultravio let (UV) light. The objective of the present study was to evaluate, wh ether such changes can also be revealed after a vacation to a sunny co untry without prior adaptation to ultraviolet radiation. In 32 volunte ers white blood cells, lymphocyte subpopulations, sIL2-R, sCD14, immun oglobulins and complement factor C-3 were determined before and after a vacation in a country with abundant sunshine during winter. The subj ects received relevant doses of WE as confirmed by questionnaires, UVB -dosimetry and the significant increase of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. After vacation, there was a significant decrease of the CD4/8 ratio and the serum concentration of IgG. The serum concentration of sIL2-R, sCD14, IgA and C-3 was increased after the journey. Sunshine exposure without prior adaptation may be responsible for significant alterations in th e immune system in association with a vacation during winter.