Evaluation of soluble cell adhesion molecules in atopic dermatitis

Recent studies have indicated the importance of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) between the vascular endothelium and activated leukocytes in various inflammatory skin diseases. Soluble forms of CAMs (sCAMs) have also been detected in sera from such diseases. In order to elucidate the role of the soluble forms in skin inflammation, we determined the serum levels of E-selectin, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, we quantified sCAMs levels in 21 patients with atopic dermatitis and in 16 healthy controls. In severe AD patients, levels of these three types of sCAMs were markedly elevated. sE-selectin was significantly elevated in severe AD over the levels in mild AD. A positive correlation with individual clinical activity was found for changes in the sE-selectin and sVCAM-1 levels. sE-selectin levels were correlated with the serum IgE levels and the number of eosinophils. The sVCAM-1 level was also significantly correlated with the number of monocytes. Among these three molecules, sE-selectin appeared to be the most sensitive clinical parameter in monitoring the clinical course of AD patients.