Can Allergies Affect Inflammatory Markers Like CRP and ESR? - Internal Medicine

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Allergies can indeed have an impact on inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), but the relationship is not straightforward. Let’s break down your questions and provide a comprehensive understanding.

1. Can allergies cause an increase in CRP and ESR?
Allergies typically do not lead to significant elevations in CRP and ESR. These markers are more commonly associated with systemic inflammation, which can occur in conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, and other inflammatory disorders. While severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can cause a transient increase in these markers, most mild to moderate allergic responses do not significantly affect CRP and ESR levels. Therefore, in your son's case, the values of CRP at 0.5 mg/dL and ESR at 20 mm/hr are likely not influenced by his allergies.

2. Could your son's current CRP and ESR levels be partially due to his allergies?
Given that your son has a history of allergies but currently has relatively low CRP and a moderate ESR, it is unlikely that his allergic condition is contributing significantly to these inflammatory markers. The IgE level of 101 and the Phadiatop score of 35(0) indicate some level of allergic sensitization, but these values alone do not correlate strongly with systemic inflammation. If your son were to manage his allergies effectively, it might improve his overall well-being, but it is unlikely to lead to a dramatic decrease in CRP and ESR, as these levels are more reflective of his underlying condition, ankylosing spondylitis (AS), rather than his allergic status.

3. What can be done for the inflammation in the sacroiliac joint?
For the inflammation observed in the sacroiliac joint, which is common in ankylosing spondylitis, the focus should be on managing the underlying condition rather than relying solely on dietary supplements. While a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds) can support overall health, specific supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may not have strong evidence supporting their efficacy in repairing joint damage. Instead, physical therapy, regular exercise, and adherence to prescribed medications (like NSAIDs or biologics) are critical in managing inflammation and preventing further joint damage.

In summary, while allergies can have some effect on inflammatory markers, they are not typically a significant contributor to changes in CRP and ESR in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases like ankylosing spondylitis. It is essential to focus on managing the primary condition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support overall health and well-being. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are crucial to monitor these markers and adjust treatment as necessary.