Elevated Levels of Soluble HLA Class I (sHLA-1) in Children with Severe Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Moore, Cleveland; Ehlayel, Mohammad; Inostroza, Jaime; Leiva, Lily E.; Sorensen, Ricardo U.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Volume 79, Number 2, August 1997 , pp. 113-118(6)
Publisher: American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
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Abstract:
Background: Atopic dermatitis is characterized by increased production of IgE and interleukin-4, immediate skin test reactivity to allergens, increased expression of CD23 on mononuclear cells, and decreased production of interferon-gamma. Soluble HLA-I molecule levels are elevated in conditions where T cells are activated such as viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and organ transplantation.Objective: We wished to determine if sHLA- heterodimers were also elevated in patients with atopic dermatitis and if sHLA-I elevations correlated with disease activity.Methods: Fourteen children with atopic dermatitis resistant to conventional treatment were followed over an 8-week period during an ongoing trial of treatment with topical sodium cromoglycate. Extent of skin involvement, disease severity, absolute eosinophil counts, IgE and HLA-I levels were determined at the time of enrollment into the study. Additional sHLA-I levels were measured after 4 and 8 weeks of therapy.Results: Mean sHLA-I levels were significantly elevated in atopic dermatitis patients, 2.07 +/- 1.14 versus 1.00 +/- 0.22 micrograms/mL in controls (P < .0001). Nine of 14 patients (64%) had elevated sHLA-I antigens. Soluble HLA-I levels did not correlate with the extent of disease, disease severity score, eosinophil count, or IgE levels. There was a remarkable consistency in sHLA-I levels at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks of therapy, even with significant clinical improvement.Conclusion: We conclude that sHLA-I heterodimers are elevated in 64% of our patients with atopic dermatitis and that elevations persist after clinically effective therapy. This conclusion supports recommendations for prolonged preventative and treatment measures in this atopic disease.Document Type: Research article
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