CXCL-10 and Interleukin-6 are Reliable Serum Markers for Vitiligo Activity: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Summary

This cross-sectional multicenter study aimed to evaluate serum CXCL-10, as an activity marker for vitiligo and compare it with other putative serum and tissue markers. Serum CXCL-10 was compared to interferon gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-17 using ELISA in 55 non-segmental vitiligo patients (30 active and 25 stable) and 30 healthy controls. Marginal skin biopsy was taken for immunohistochemical evaluation of CD8+T-cells and CXCL-10 +ve cells. Serum levels of CXCL-10, IL-17 and IL-6 were elevated in all vitiligo patients compared to controls (P<0.05). All investigated serum markers were higher in active versus stable vitiligo. Tissue expression of CXCL-10+ve cells and CD8+ve T-cells was stronger in vitiligo patients compared to controls, and tissue CXCL-10 +ve cells expression was stronger in active versus stable cases. Positive correlations were noted between the different serum and tissue markers. CXCL-10 was the most specific whereas IL-6 was the most sensitive serum marker to distinguish active from stable disease.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.