Abstract
Background: Pemphigus vulgaris is a chronic mucocutaneous condition and is the most common form of pemphigus. It produces blisters and erosions on the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus is a life-threatening autoimmune disease, and its prevalence has increased in recent years. Its etiology has not been well elucidated, but immunological factors have been reported to play a role.
Methods: In the present cross-sectional case/control study, 18 patients with pemphigus vulgaris and 36 healthy subjects were included based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine interleukin (IL)-17 serum levels. Data were analyzed using descriptive parameters (means and standard deviations), and the Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare quantitative variables between the two groups by SPSS 16; furthermore, statistical significance was defined at P<0.05.
Results: The means of IL-17 serum levels in patients with pemphigus and healthy subjects were 261.2±126 pg/mL and 35.7±11.6 pg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the Mann-Whitney U test revealed significantly higher serum levels of IL-17 in patients with pemphigus (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, the serum levels of IL-17 expression increased in pemphigus.