Does protease-dependent activation of epithelial cells by fungal allergens lead to morphologic changes and cytokine production?
Proteases present in fungal extracts interact with epithelial cells, leading to morphologic changes, cell desquamation, and induction of proinflammatory cytokines. It is proposed that these fungal proteases may activate epithelial cells through a protease-activated receptor type 2-driven mechanism.
As postpubertal mumps in males is associated with a 40% incidence of orchitis, parents should be made aware that failing to immunize their children threatens the future fertility of their sons. Young men not immunized as children should be counselled and offered urgent vaccination. Clinicians should be aware that epididymo-orchitis may be secondary to mumps infection even with no history or clinical evidence of parotitis.