Serum level of interleukin‑22 in patients with psoriasis and its correlation with disease severity

Introduction Psoriasis is a T‑cell‑mediated inflammatory disease where T‑helper (Th) lymphocytes (Th1, Th17, and Th22) play an important role in its pathogenesis. The aim of the present study was to assess the serum levels of interleukin (IL)‑22 and its correlation with disease severity. Materials and methods The present study included 25 psoriatic patients and 25 healthy controls. Using serum samples collected from psoriatic patients and healthy controls, the concentrations of IL‑22 were examined using ELISA kits. The severity of psoriatic skin lesions was assessed using psoriasis area and severity index scores. Results IL‑22 concentrations were significantly higher in psoriatic patients in comparison with the control group. A significant, positive correlation between the concentrations of IL‑22 and the severity of psoriasis was found. Conclusion The results of our study suggest that Th22 along with its cytokine responses may contribute to the skin and systemic inflammatory conditions characteristic of psoriasis. It seems that early identification of soluble biomarkers and initiation of well‑matched treatment may prevent exacerbation and progression of psoriasis.