Platelet activating factor in allergies

Abstract

The platelet-activating factor (PAF) produced and released by mast cells, basophils, neutrophils, eosinophils, fibroblasts, platelets, endothelial cells, and even cardiac muscle cells plays an important role in inflammatory and thrombotic diseases. PAF has been shown to be an important mediator in anaphylaxis. Serum level of the factor correlates with the severity of systemic reactions. PAF is also involved in asthamatic patients’ bronchoconstriction, mucus hypersecretion, and inflammation of bronchi. Furthermore, increased plasma levels of PAF have been reported in patients with urticarial. Studies have shown that PAF increases the permeability of skin’s capillaries and indices the development of wheals, flare, and inflammatory reactions in the skin. This review focuses on the actions of the PAF on the eosinophiles and mast cells. Following that pathophysiological mechanism of the PAF in anaphylaxis bronchial asthma and urticaria was discussed.