Unique cytokine signature in ocular Stevens-Johnson syndrome non-responders

To clinically define a subset of patients with chronic ocular Stevens-Johnson syndrome non-responders (SJS-NR) and analyze their cytokine profile compared to clinical responders (SJS-CR).

A total of 32 SJS cases (n = 32, 64 eyes) managed over a period of three years were segregated into clinical responders (n = 24, 48 eyes) and non-responders (n = 8, 16 eyes). Cases were determined as non-responders based on persistent, refractory, and non-mechanical inflammation of the conjunctiva. Age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n = 25, 50 eyes) were recruited. Tear specimens collected using Schirmer's strip were profiled for 27 cytokines using an immunoassay-based 27-bioplex array.

Tear cytokine profiling revealed 18 cytokines to be differentially expressed in SJS-NR compared to SJS-CR. While PDGF-BB, IL-4, IL-1β, VEGF, IL-12p70, IFN-γ, IL-9, and IL-1RA were upregulated, GM-CSF, eotaxin, IP-10, IL-10, MCP-1, G-CSF, IL-6, IL-13, and bFGF were downregulated in SJS-NR compared to SJS-CR. The cytokines IL-13, IL-10, and IP-10 were decreased in both SJS-NR and SJS-CR compared to controls.

The inflammation in SJS-NR continues to worsen despite the correction of mechanical causes, resulting in progressive deterioration of the cornea. The cytokine profile of SJS-NR was remarkably different from that of SJS-CR, indicating a T helper 2-type protective proliferative response and an impaired migratory potential of the conjunctival epithelium. These factors could possibly lead to poor healing of the corneal epithelium in a markedly pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic milieu. The top four differentially expressed cytokines, PDGF-BB, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-6, are proposed as potential biomarkers of SJS-NR.