Eosinophil counts in peripheral blood, serum total IgE, eosinophil cationic protein, IL-4 and soluble E-selectin in atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Background: Since the management of atopic dermatitis often needs prolonged administration of medication, the laboratory index reflecting disease severity is necessary for optimal treatment for this disease. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate peripheral eosinophil counts, serum total IgE, eosinophilic cationic protein(ECP), IL-4 and soluble E-selectin as severity indices or disease marker. Method: A total of 21 patients with atopic dermatitis and 21 normal controls were evaluated for the symptoms and signs according to SCORAD index and measured for peripheral eosinophil counts, serum total IgE, ECP, IL-4 and soluble E-selectin. Results: Peripheral eosinophil counts, serum total IgE, ECP and soluble E-selectin levels of patients with atopic dermatitis were significantly increased compared with those of normal control(p<0.05). Moreover, serum ECP and soluble E-selectin correlated with SCORAD score. Serum IL-4 levels of patients with atopic dermatitis were slightly increased compared with those of normal control but not statistically significant(p>0.05). Conclusion: ECP and soluble E-selectin were good serum marker reflecting the severity of atopic dermatitis.