Superoxide dismutase in pediatric palatine tonsils and adenoids and its related clinical parameters.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to investigate a protective system of pediatric palatine tonsils and adenoids against superoxide radicals (O(2)(-)) and to evaluate the clinical factors including otitis media with effusion that are related to both the expression and activities of copper zinc superoxide dismutases (CuZnSODs).

DESIGN

CuZnSODs in the palatine tonsils and adenoids were studied using immunohistochemistry and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemistry showed that CuZnSODs distribute in the crypt epithelium, mucous membrane, mantle zone, and extrafollicular area of the pediatric adenoids as well as in the palatine tonsils. Otitis media with effusion and paranasal sinusitis were related to CuZnSODs expression in the pediatric adenoids. In addition, the frequency of tonsillitis and presence of recent tonsillitis were significantly related to CuZnSODs expression in the pediatric tonsils (P <.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In both the pediatric palatine tonsils and adenoids, the mechanism of tissue protection against infection and frequent inflammatory reactions may be closely related to CuZnSODs expression. There may be close relationship between the increased level of O(2)(-) that leads to an increase in CuZnSODs in the pediatric adenoid tissue and the development of otitis media.