The present study conducted a critical analysis of the literature regarding the role of cytokines in acquired cholesteatomas. Middle ear cholesteatomas are characterized by the presence of stratified squamous epithelium in this cavity revealing highly invasive properties evolving bone destruction and subsequent complications. Cytokines are low molecular weight-glycoproteins able to act in cellular intercommunication. They are important to stimulation and suppression of immune response-related events, triggering and coordinating inflammatory response, as well as wound healing and tissue remodeling. In cholesteatoma, reported cytokines and growth factors were as follows: IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-<FONT FACE=Symbol>a</font>, TGF-alpha, TGF-beta, EGF and KGF. A synergism among different cytokines should occur to generate the aggressive characteristics of cholesteatoma.
immunohystochemistry; cytokines; middle ear; cholesteatoma