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Increased serum interleukin-17 in Graves' ophthalmopathy
Sung Eun Kim1, Jin Sook Yoon, Keun Ho Kim
1Department of Ophthalmology, Myongji Hospital, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Koyang, 412-270, Korea.
Summary
Elevated levels of Interleukin-17 (IL-17) were found in Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) patients, correlating with disease activity. This suggests IL-17 plays a role in GO pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Interleukin-17 (IL-17) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells are implicated in autoimmune disease pathogenesis.
- Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune condition affecting the eyes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of IL-17 in the development and disease activity of Graves' ophthalmopathy.
- To determine if IL-17 serum concentrations correlate with clinical markers of GO activity.
Main Methods:
- Serum cytokine levels (IL-17, IL-6, IL-23, IL-16) were measured in 62 GO patients and 19 healthy controls using multiplexed immunoassays.
- Clinical parameters including disease activity score (CAS), exophthalmometry, and extraocular muscle involvement were assessed.
- Statistical analyses were performed to correlate cytokine levels with clinical findings.
Main Results:
- Serum IL-17 concentrations and detection rates were significantly higher in GO patients compared to controls.
- Active GO patients exhibited higher serum IL-17 levels than inactive GO patients.
- Serum IL-17 concentration showed a significant positive correlation with the clinical activity score (CAS).
Conclusions:
- Increased serum IL-17 levels in GO patients suggest its involvement in the disease's pathophysiology.
- The correlation between IL-17 concentration and clinical activity scores supports its role in GO pathogenesis.
- IL-17 may be a potential biomarker for GO disease activity.
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