Serum C1q Concentration Positively Correlates with Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rheumatology
• Complement System

Background:

• C1q is a key component of the classical complement pathway.
• Polymyositis and dermatomyositis (PM/DM) are inflammatory myopathies.
• The role of C1q in PM/DM pathogenesis requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate serum C1q concentrations in patients with PM/DM.
• To evaluate the association between C1q levels and clinical/laboratory markers of inflammation in PM/DM.

Main Methods:

• Serum C1q concentrations were measured in 87 PM/DM patients and 100 healthy controls.
• C1q levels were analyzed in relation to creatine kinase (CK), AST, ALT, LDH, hsCRP, and ESR.
• Statistical analysis was performed to determine significant differences and correlations.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in serum C1q levels was found between PM/DM patients and healthy subjects.
• Serum C1q concentrations were significantly higher in PM/DM patients with elevated ESR compared to those with normal ESR.
• A significant positive correlation was observed between serum C1q concentration and ESR (P=0.002).
• No association was found between C1q levels and CK, AST, ALT, LDH, or hsCRP.

Conclusions:

• Serum C1q levels are elevated in PM/DM patients with higher ESR.
• A significant positive correlation exists between C1q concentration and ESR in PM/DM.
• The precise role of the classical complement pathway in PM/DM warrants additional research.