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Abstract
Background Incomplete SLE (iSLE) is the designation of patients who display symptoms that are typical for SLE, but with insufficient criteria to fulfil the diagnosis. Unfortunately, predictive biomarkers for SLE development are lacking. Increased IFN-type I production is an important factor in the pathogenesis of SLE. Interferon-regulated chemokines therefore could possibly be useful as biomarkers for disease progression to SLE. Candidate biomarkers IFN-γ induced protein 10 (IP-10) and monocyte chemo attractant protein (MCP-1) have shown to be increased in SLE and to correlate with disease activity.
Objectives To determine possible candidate biomarkers IFN-γ induced protein 10 (IP-10) and monocyte chemo attractant protein (MCP-1) in patients with iSLE.
Methods Serum samples were collected of 30 iSLE patients, 29 SLE patients, and 17 ANA-negative patients with histologically proven cutaneous lupus erythematosus (ANCLE). Outcomes were compared with 25 age- and gender-matched controls (CTL) and 31 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients as disease control group. Levels of IP-10 and MCP-1 were measured using ELISA.
Results IP-10 was significantly increased in SLE and RA patients compared with CTL and ANCLE. IP-10 levels were increased in 23% of iSLE patients. These patients had higher SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) and more frequently decreased C3 level and joint involvement compared to those with normal IP-10 levels. Regarding MCP-1 levels, no significant differences were found between any of the groups and no correlations with clinical markers was found.
Conclusions Levels of IP-10, but not MCP-1, might be useful as a predictive biomarker for progression to SLE in patients with iSLE, although future prospective longitudinal analyses are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Disclosure of Interest None declared