Common infection and allergy induced biomarkers status in respiratory diseases among Iranian Hajj pilgrims

Abstract

Background: The sources of respiratory dis orders commonly occurred during the Hajj ceremony are now challenging and its infectious or allergic nature remained unknown. The present comprehensive study was conducted to assess sources of respiratory disorders in Hajj pilgrims. Method: In this prospective observational study, blood samples of 130 pilgrims were taken for assessment of serum levels of infectious and allergic sources. The measurement of IgA, IgG, IgM was used for assessment of infectious reactions against microbial antigens, NBT test was employed to assess phagocytic functions, and the measurement of gamma interferon was used for assessing immunity status against infections. Also, measurement of IgE and IL-4 was applied as two markers for assessing allergic reactions. The ELISA test was also used to assess serum levels of immunoglobulin A, G, M, E, IL-4 and gamma interferon before and three weeks after returning from Hajj ceremony. All of the volunteers were followed up along the trip and the involved pilgrim’s characteristics were recorded. Results: The present study showed no significant change in the level of allergic biomarkers including IgE and IL-4, however the mean levels of IgM, gamma Interferon and NBT test were increased after the trip compared with before that. Conclusion: Infections play a major role in occurrence of respiratory disorders among Hajj pilgrims and thus the role of allergic sources is doubtful.