Interferon-γ (INF-γ) release test can detect cutaneous adverse effects to statins

Authors: Goldberg, Ilan; Isman, Gila; Shirazi, Idit; Brenner, Sarah

Source: International Journal of Dermatology, Volume 48, Number 12, December 2009 , pp. 1370-1375(6)

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Abstract:

Background

An increasing number of cutaneous adverse effects are being reported as use of statins becomes more widespread. A study was undertaken to establish the relationship between statin and a cutaneous reaction by the in vitro interferon-γ (INF-γ) release test. Methods

The lymphocytes of 20 patients with suspected drug-induced skin reaction were incubated with and without the drug. The level of INF-γ from the supernatant was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the increase calculated. Results

Response was positive in 27 (21.43%) of the 126 drugs. Statin was the only drug with a positive response in 80% of those cases. Nine of 20 patients (45.0%) had complete resolution after discontinuation of the drug; 6 (30.0%) who replaced one drug by another statin had partial or no resolution; and 5 (20.0%) had no resolution despite cessation of statins of all kinds. Conclusion

A positive INF-γ release test was found in patients who developed skin reactions while taking statins; the test's reliability was strengthened by prompt improvement following elimination of the suspected drug in the majority of patients.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2008.03896.x

Publication date: 2009-12-01