TYPE-2 CYTOKINE SERUM LEVELS IN HEALTHY SICKLE-CELL DISEASE PATIENTS

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by significant morbidity an d early mortality. Children with this hemoglobinopathy exhibit many of the manifestations associated with immunodeficiency disorders. Serum was obtained from 56 healthy SCD subjects and 45 normal healthy contro ls. Type 2 cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and IL-10 serum levels were measured. Concentrations were determined by reference to a standa rd curve, and results were expressed in pg/ml. Results revealed signif icant levels of IL-4 in 6 (13%) of 45 CD patients compared with 1 (2%) of 45 controls. Increased levels of IL-6 were present in 35 (78%) of 45 SCD patients and 12 (41%) of 29 controls. Elevated levels of IL-10 were detectable in 13 (41%) of 42 SCD patients and 1 (4%) of 25 contro ls. High circulating levels of type 2 cytokines may suppress both humo ral and cell mediated immune functions in SCD, with resultant increase d morbidity.