This is the first study to demonstrate an asthmatic with a severe allergy to ferret allergen. Of the 38 fragrances identified as causing reactions, the top six were Red, White Diamonds, Giorgio, Charlie, Opium and Poison. Spirometry was performed during the last 10 minutes of each exposure period. After each exposure, the chamber was flushed with filtered air. Red and Charlie equally elicited the most frequent decline in lung function followed by Giorgio, Opium and White Diamonds.
Researchers conclude that fragrances cause frequent respiratory symptoms in individuals with asthma.
However, the degree of decline in lung function was much less than that expected from the subject s clinical histories. When used with corticosteroids, this hormone also has a synergistic immunomodulatory and steroid sparing effect. Orathai Jirapongsananuruk, M.D. and colleagues from National Jewish Medical and Research Center found that 1,25-OH 2 D 3 significantly decreased lymphocyte proliferation. Lymphocytes are groups of white blood cells of crucial importance to the adaptive part of the body s immune system. The hormone also significantly decreased cytokine production.