Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-13 are elevated in patients with localized scleroderma.

BACKGROUND

The enhanced production of some cytokines may be related to the pathogenesis of localized scleroderma (LSc).

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)-13 are elevated, and whether they correlated with clinical or serological features in patients with LSc.

METHODS

Serum levels of TNF and IL-13 were examined by ELISA in 45 patients with LSc and in 20 healthy controls.

RESULTS

The frequency of serum TNF detection was significantly higher in patients with LSc (24%) compared with that in healthy controls (0%). The frequency of serum IL-13 detection was also significantly higher in patients with LSc (29%) compared with that in controls (0%). In patients with LSc, elevated TNF levels significantly correlated with the presence of IgM antihistone antibodies, anti-single-stranded DNA antibodies, elevated serum IL-6 levels, the number of linear lesions, and muscle involvement. Elevated IL-13 levels were significantly associated with the number of plaque lesions and the total number of lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that TNF and IL-13 may be associated with the development of LSc.