Comparative evaluation of salivary IL-1α, IL-10 and TNF-α concentrations in patients with oral pemphigus vulgaris lesions by ELISA technique

Introduction: Based on recent research, cytokines particularly IL-1α, IL-10, and INF-α might play a role in the pathogenesis of pemphigus vulgaris. Some autoimmune diseases have been successfully treated with the use of antibodies against cytokines. The aim of this study was to compare salivary concentrations of IL-1α, IL-10, and TNF-α in patients with pemphigus vulgaris and normal individuals. Materials and methods: In this analytical-descriptive study, 24 pemphigus vulgaris patients referring to the Department of Dermatology, Alzahra Hospital, and 26 healthy individuals were evaluated. Unstimulated salivary samples were collected by spitting method in both groups. IL-1α, IL-10, and TNF-α concentrations were measured by ELISA technique. The results were analyzed by t-test (α=0.05).Results: The mean salivary concentrations of IL-1α, IL-10 and TNF-α were higher in pemphigus vulgaris patients compared to healthy subjects. The differences were significant in relation to IL-1α (p value = 0.024) and TNF-α (p value = 0.005) between the two groups; however, the differences were not significant in relation to IL-10 (p value = 0.243).Conclusion: The increase in salivary concentrations of IL-1α and TNF-α in patients with pemphigus vulgaris compared to healthy individuals might indicate the role of these agents in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Key words: ELISA technique, IL-1α, IL-10, TNF-α, Pemphigus vulgaris.