Fig. 9From: Effects of thermal water inhalation in chronic upper respiratory tract infections in elderly and young patientsHypothetical model of immune modulation exerted by thermal water inhalation in elderly and young cURTI patients. The key result is represented by the increased levels of IL-21 which may lead to an augmented secretion of IL-17. Subsequent recruitment of neutrophils may also restore reduced serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients. Consistent levels of IL-10, mainly produced by T regulatory cells, may restrain the potential induction of an exaggerated inflammatory pathwayBack to article page