Authors: Kallimanis, P. G.; Xenos, K.; Markantonis, S. L.; Stavropoulos, P.; Margaroni, G.; Katsambas, A.; Avgerinou, G.

Source: Clinical & Experimental Dermatology, Volume 34, Number 5, July 2009 , pp. 582-586(5)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Summary Background. 

Psoriasis is an immune cell-mediated disease in which cytokines play an important role. Studies have been performed to explore the relationship between the disease and cytokine blood levels with a view to finding a biomarker for monitoring disease severity/activity and treatment efficacy. Aim. 

To investigate the levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in patients with mild psoriasis vulgaris (PV) and the possible use of this cytokine in monitoring treatment with biological drugs. Methods. 

Serum levels of TGF-β1 were estimated in 33 untreated patients (PI group), in 7 of these patients (PII group) before and after 3 months of treatment with one of two biological drugs (etanercept and efalizumab) and in 19 healthy volunteers (control group). Results. 

Significantly (P < 0.0001) higher serum levels of TGF-β1 were found in the PI group [Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 9-10] compared with the 19 healthy volunteers. In the PII group, after the administration of one of the biological drugs, a 50% reduction in PASI and a significant (P = 0.032) decrease in TGF-β1 was noted. Conclusions. 

Raised TGF-β1 levels in patients with mild PV decreased in tandem with a decrease in PASI after biological drug treatment. Hence, TGF-β1 levels seem to be sensitive to changes in disease severity.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2230.2008.03026.x

Affiliations: 1: First Department of Dermatology, Immunohistology laboratory, University of Athens, A. Sygros Hospital, Athens, Greece

Publication date: 2009-07-01

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