[Soluble receptors of cytokines in sera of patients with systemic sclerosis--clinical correlation]. / Rozpuszczalne receptory dla cytokin w surowicach chorych z twardzina ukladowa--korelacje kliniczne.

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to examine the levels of some soluble receptors of cytokines in sera from patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and to evaluate their role as parameters of disease activity and severity. Fifty-four patients with SSc were included in the study. Concentrations of the soluble receptors sIL-2R, sTNF alpha RI and sIL-6R were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-ELISA. Controls were healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers. The study demonstrated that soluble receptors levels sII-2R, sIL-6R and sTNF alpha RI were elevated in SSc patients and correlated with progress and severity of the disease. The most important correlations were found for sIL-2R levels, which were increased in 66.7% of patients. The raised levels of sTNF alpha RI were found in 32.4% of patients, and sIL-6R in 23.7% of patients. The concentrations were elevated in diffuse form of SSc and in patients with rapid systemic progression.