Leukotrienes and leukotriene modifiers in pediatric allergic diseases

Leukotrienes are potent pro-inflammatory lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid through several enzymatic pathways. They have an essential role in allergic inflammation, where they induce bronchoconstriction, airway edema, and chemotaxis of the inflammatory cells in the airways, nasal and conjunctival tissues. Leukotriene modifiers include leukotriene receptor antagonists (montelukast, zafirlukast and pranlukast) and leukotriene synthesis inhibitors (zileuton). These medications have been extensively used in childhood allergic diseases. This review will highlight the leukotriene pathway and its role in allergy as well as the effects of leukotriene modifiers in different allergic disorders.