The alarmin S100A8/A9 as a biomarker for peritonsillar abscess

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Christoph Spiekermann, Johannes Roth, Thomas Vogl, Markus Stenner and Claudia Rudack

University Hospital Münster, Germany

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Abstract

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Introduction: Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a very frequent reason for urgent outpatient consultation. Objective markers to identify patients with PTA have not been described so far. The proinflammatory alarmin S100A8/A9 is released by activated phagocytes at local sites of inflammation. We hypothesized this molecule to be a potential biomarker for PTA. Methods: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were performed to determine S100A8/A9 levels in serum and saliva of patients with acute tonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess and healthy controls. Immunohistochemistry was performed to demonstrate S100A8/A9 localization in tonsils. Results: Compared to healthy controls, significantly increased levels of S100A8/A9 were observed in serum of patients with acute tonsillitis and PTA. Furthermore, salivary S100A8/A9 levels were increased in patients with PTA. Conclusion: Determination of S100A8/A9 levels in serum and saliva is an objective criterion to identify patients with PTA.

Biography

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Christoph Spiekermann is a Resident in Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery at University Hospital Munster. He has been interested in innate immunity and its influence on inflammation processes. The major part of his recent research work includes proinflammatory proteins & their function in inflammatory homeostasis.

Email: christophOtto.Spiekermann@ukmuenster.de