Immunological changes during cockroach immunotherapy

Data obtained in a 3-year survey of specific immunotherapy (SIT) with a Per iplaneta americana antigen (Pa-l) are presented. Parameters such as serum I gE-paperadioimmunosorbent test, specific IgE and IgG, interleukin (IL)-2, I L-4 and IL-4R levels were recorded before and after SIT: While serum IgE le vels and IgE-RAST-anti-Pa-1 did not change throughout SIT (p = not signific ant), IgG-RAST-anti-Pa-l showed a marked increase from the first year (p < 0.002 to p < 0.001). only after 3 years of SIT did the serum levels of IL-2 , IL-4 and IL-4R show lower values than before this period (p = 0.05, p = 0 .05, p = 0.01, respectively). The comparative statistical analysis of the c ytokine data between the nonatopic subjects and the atopic treated patients revealed no significant differences (p = 0.02). The symptomatic scores sho wed significant results at the third year of SIT in sneezing attacks, nose blowing and nasal obstruction (p = 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.001, respectivel y).