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Systemic cytokine response in humans with chiclero's ulcers
C M Lezama-Davila1, A P Isaac-Marquez
1Centro de Investigaciones en Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Campeche, México.
Parasitology Research
|April 25, 2006
Summary
Active chiclero's ulcers show a strong Th1 immune response, indicated by elevated cytokines like IL-2 and TNF-alpha. This contrasts with a lack of antibody response and reduced Th2 cytokines, suggesting a specific immune profile in this disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Chiclero's ulcers, caused by Leishmania mexicana, present a significant health challenge.
- Understanding the immune response is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immune profile of patients with active chiclero's ulcers.
- To determine the type of T helper cell response (Th1 vs. Th2) in progressive disease stages.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of serum cytokine concentrations (IL-2, TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-4, IL-12p40, IL-12p70).
- Assessment of delayed type hypersensitivity response and specific antibody (IgG, IgE) levels.
- Evaluation of nitric oxide and transforming growth factor-beta1.
- Blood cell count analysis and in vitro T cell proliferation assays using Leishmania mexicana gp63.
Main Results:
- Patients exhibited enhanced Th1 cytokines (IL-2, TNF-alpha) and IL-12p40, alongside a strong delayed type hypersensitivity response.
- Absence of serum-specific antibodies (IgG, IgE) and low/absent Th2 cytokines (IL-6, IL-4) were observed.
- Reduced T cell proliferation and altered blood cell counts, including increased eosinophils and B cells, with decreased CD8+ T lymphocytes, were noted.
Conclusions:
- Active chiclero's ulcers are characterized by a predominant Th1-type immune response.
- The observed immune profile correlates with specific alterations in circulating immune cells, highlighting a complex host-parasite interaction.
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