Original paper
Pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with various kinds of acne treated with isotretinoin

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is the most frequently diagnosed dermatosis in patients aged between 11 and 30. It is believed that it affects about 80% of persons in this age group or even, taking into account lesions of low intensity, 100% of young people. The role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of acne is not fully known. The TLR2 receptors play a role in the aetiology of acne. Stimulation of TLR2 by Propionibacterium acnes makes the IL-8 and IL-12 concentrations increase.

Aim: The aim of this work was to determine IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-8 and TNF-α levels in patients’ sera used to test response to TLR2 stimulation. A decrease in the levels of the above mentioned cytokines together with a decrease in sebum production were defined as an indication of efficient treatment with isotretinoin.

Material and methods: The tests were performed in 155 patients treated for different clinical forms of acne with an oral isotretinoin preparation in the Dermatology Clinic of the Silesian Medical University in Katowice in 2009–2011 – I group and the patients treated with oral isotretinoin 2 and 5 years ago – II group. The control group consisted of 40 healthy individuals.

Conclusions: Measurements of IL-1α, IL-1β and TNF-α sera concentrations could be assessed in parallel to the improvement of the clinical condition and can constitute a good indication of the efficiency of the isotretinoin treatment.