CYTOKINES AND SYSTEMIC LUPUS-ERYTHEMATOSU S

Lymphocyte B hyperactivity and cell-mediated immune deficiency are cha racteristic features of systemic lupus erythematosus. This imbalance i s seen in cytokine production. T lymphocyte production of interleukin- 2 is defective while proinflammatory cytokines such as IL1 beta, IL6 a nd TNF alpha increase spontaneously during flare-ups. However, the cap acity of the monocytes in these patients to produce cytokines is reduc ed after stimulation by exterior agents such as LPS. Moreover, product ion of interleukin 10 is increased in lupus patients. Most likely, it is this increase in interleukin 10 production which causes the disrupt ed immunity in this disease.