[Leukocyte expression of the LFA-1 adhesion molecule in spondylarthropathies]

The expression of adhesion molecule Leukocyte Function Antigen-1 (LFA-1) on peripheral blood leukocytes was evaluated (using a monoclonal antibody anti CD11a/LFA-1) in 52 spondylarthropathies (SA) (35 HLA B27 positive), 12 healthy patients, 24 active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and 12 systemic lupus (SLE) patients. LFA-1 expression on lymphocytes was similar in the different groups of patients, but LFA-1 expression on granulocytes was higher in SA than in controls (p < 0.05) or in RA or SLE. Fluorescence intensity of anti LFA-1 staining on SA granulocytes correlated with serum IgA levels. There was no difference between HLA B27 positive/negative, biologically inflammatory (CRP > 21 mg/l)/non inflammatory SA patients. This study seems to confirm the granulocyte and IgA involvement in immunopathogenesis of spondylarthropathies.