Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the level of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and the expression of costimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86 on monocytes and their ligands (CD28) on T-lymphocytes in children with allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods: The study included 60 children with AR and 50 controls. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze MDSCs and the expression of costimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86 on monocytes and their ligands (CD28) on T-lymphocytes. Results: The percentages of total and monocytic MDSCs and the expression of costimulatory molecule CD86 on monocytes were significantly higher in children with AR than in healthy controls. In addition, the expressions of CD28 on CD4(+) and CD8(+) were significantly elevated in AR patients. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the percentages of MDSCs were significantly elevated in AR children. Moreover, the expressions of CD28 on CD4(+) and CD8(+) were significantly higher in children with AR.