[Oxidative stress and antioxidant factors in pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis].

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the role of oxidative stress and antioxidants in the etiopathogenesis of allergic rhinitis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 40 patients (13 males, 27 females; mean age 30+/-14 years; range 4 to 63 years) with allergic rhinitis. The mean symptom duration was 5.2+/-4.9 years. Blood and serum samples were analyzed spectrophotometrically. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and vitamins A and E were measured as enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, respectively. Oxidative stress was determined by the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was measured as the total antioxidant activity against oxidative stress products. The results were compared with those of a control group consisting of 40 healthy individuals. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, the mean MDA level was significantly higher, and the mean MPO, vitamin A and E levels, and TAC were significantly lower in the patient group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that imbalances between oxidative stress and antioxidant defence mechanisms may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of allergic rhinitis.