Superantigens and Chronic Rhinosinusitis II: Analysis of T-Cell Receptor Vβ Domains in Nasal Polyps

Abstract

The current results indicate that polyp lymphocytes exhibit significant oligoclonal expansion of specific V beta-domains. These data are considered diagnostic of a SAg effect. The corresponding blood profile is much less, suggesting that the nose is the primary source of stimulus. Although the trigger(s) for this expansion are unknown, these data are consistent with the hypothesis that staphylococcal toxins are central to the development of CRSwNP.