Evaluation of the eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in pediatric patients with allergic rhinitis.

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis is a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction of the nasal mucosa, the primary mediator of which is immunoglobulin E. Allergic rhinitis occurs in children and adolescents.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the relationship between allergies and the eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in children with allergic rhinitis with a positive skin-prick test.

STUDY

DESIGN

This study was planned and performed as a case-control study.

METHODS

There were 695 patients who presented to our clinic who were enrolled in the study. Only group 4 fit the criteria for allergic rhinitis. Group 1 (nonsensitized asymptomatic [control group]), group 2 (nonsensitized symptomatic), group 3 (sensitized asymptomatic), and group 4 (sensitized symptomatic). The patients' allergy symptoms and skin test results were assessed and compared. The eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio for each patient was calculated. The eosinophil and lymphocyte counts and the eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were calculated for each group.

RESULTS

The eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and eosinophil counts in groups 3 and 4 were significantly higher (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) than those in groups 1 and 2. The lymphocyte counts in groups 3 and 4 were significantly lower (p = 0.046) than those of groups 1 and 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio may be used in conjunction with skin-prick testing in pediatric patients with allergic rhinitis. This parameter is inexpensive to measure and easy to use and calculate.