Detection of IL-5 and IL-1 receptor antagonist in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in acute eosinophilic pneumonia.

Background: Acute eosinophilic pneumonia is an idiopathic cause of respiratory failure, characterized by very high numbers of alveolar eosinophils without significant blood eosinophilia.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine which cytokines are associated with acute eosinophilic pneumonia.

Methods: Soluble IL-1 type II receptor and the cytokines IL-1 beta, IL-1ra, IL-3, IL-5, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were measured in serum and in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from two patients with acute eosinophilic pneumonia during both acute and convalescent phases.

Detection of soluble type II receptor in the presence of its natural ligand IL-1 beta. Quantification by sandwich ELISA.

The type II interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R II) is a newly described 60-68 kDa protein expressed on monocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes. It is hypothesized that a 45 kDa soluble form of the IL-1R II attenuates the proinflammatory effects of IL-1 by preventing its binding to the type I IL-1 receptor. However, very little information exists regarding the detection of soluble IL-1R II.

Bell's palsy.

Idiopathic facial (Bell's) palsy is an affliction commonly seen and managed by the family physician. Although the prognosis is generally good, steroids and cromolyn sodium have each been advocated to enhance full recovery. Surgical exploration of the nerve is indicated when the diagnosis is unclear.