Soluble CD14 in children with status asthmaticus.

BACKGROUND Inflammation is a major component in the pathogenesis of asthma. CD14 is an endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) receptor, and is expressed mainly on monocytes and macrophages. Binding of LPS to CD14 activates the monocyte or macrophage and causes the release of different cytokines. The soluble form of CD14 is present in serum, and its concentration increases in several clinical conditions, including infections, autoimmune disorders, allergic disorders, and lung diseases. The possible role of CD14/sCD14 in asthma has been investigated in a few adult patients only. OBJECTIVES To measure serum concentrations of sCD14 in children with status asthmaticus. METHODS We compared serum concentration of sCD14 in 10 children with status asthmaticus measured within 24 hours of admission and after recovery from the acute episode. RESULTS Levels of sCD14 were significantly higher during acute asthma attacks than at recovery. CONCLUSIONS The elevated serum levels of sCD14 during status asthmaticus may be the result of the activation of monocytes, macrophages or other cells. The influence of medications on serum sCD14 cannot be ruled out. The possible use of sCD14 as a marker of lung inflammation in asthma warrants further investigation.