Neutrophilic and eosinophilic inflammation in the exacerbation of bronchial asthma and COPD by RV infection has also been associated with a variety of mediators including IL-6 and IL-8 (Pizzichini et al. 1998; Seemungal et al. 2000). This evidence concerns the gene CXCL8 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.