Published in:
01-10-2012 | Oculoplastics and Orbit
Increased serum interleukin-17 in Graves’ ophthalmopathy
Published in: Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology | Issue 10/2012
Login to get accessAbstract
Background
Interleukin (IL)-17 and T helper 17 (Th17) cells are reported to be involved in many autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study is to investigate the involvement of IL-17 in the pathogenesis and disease activity of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO).
Methods
Sixty-two GO patients and 19 healthy controls were recruited. Serum concentrations of cytokines, IL-17, IL-6, IL-23, and IL-16, were measured using multiplexed microsphere-based flow cytometric immunoassays. GO hormonal parameters, clinical activity score (CAS), exophthalmometry, and extraocular muscle involvement were evaluated, and relationships with cytokine concentrations were analyzed.
Results
The concentration and positive detection rates of serum IL-17 were significantly higher in patients with GO than in controls. The serum levels of IL-17 in active GO patients were higher than that of inactive GO patients. Serum IL-17 concentration had significant correlation with CAS (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The increased serum level of IL-17 and related cytokines in GO patients and the correlation of IL-17 concentration with the clinical activity scores suggest that IL-17 may play a pathophysiological role in GO.