What Are Interleukins?

By jolene

Article Sources

Medical Expert

More About Us

8. Interleukins in Asthma

Asthma is a condition where there is chronic inflammation of the airways resulting in airway obstruction. Most cases can be controlled using inhaled corticosteroids and long acting 2-agonists. However, 5% to 10% of patients have severe disease that does not respond to treatment. They often require additional medications and often experience a lower quality of life. There are often absences from school and work. Interleukins play a crucial role in the inflammatory changes seen in asthma. Understanding the role of interleukins and the mechanism of how asthma occurs have enabled researchers to find potential therapies. Currently, there are studies involving interleukins 5, 9, 13, 17, and more. However, these are still several years away from reaching potential use on patients.