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C-reactive protein in childhood dermatomyositis
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|October 1, 1982
Summary
Childhood dermatomyositis patients show low C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, even during relapse. Muscle biopsies also lacked CRP, suggesting the disease itself doesn't trigger a significant CRP response.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Childhood dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disease affecting muscles and skin.
- C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase reactant often elevated in inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels and muscle tissue deposition in patients with childhood dermatomyositis.
Main Methods:
- Serum CRP levels were measured in 9 patients with childhood dermatomyositis.
- Direct immunofluorescent staining was used to examine muscle biopsies for CRP deposition.
Main Results:
- All 4 patients assessed during clinical relapse had serum CRP levels below 1 mg/l.
- No CRP deposition was detected in muscle biopsies from 4 patients.
Conclusions:
- Childhood dermatomyositis may not elicit a significant C-reactive protein (CRP) response, despite the potential for CRP production during infections.
- Further research is needed to understand the inflammatory markers in this condition.