Pathogenic value of neuropeptides and growth factor proteins for the development of inflammation and itching in patients with prevalent dermatoses

Abstract

Goal. To determine the value of neuropeptides and growth factor proteins for the development of inflammation and itching in patients with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Materials and methods. There was a study of 13 patients with atopic dermatitis, 28 patients with psoriasis and eleven healthy volunteers. The severity and prevalence of the skin lesion in patients with atopic dermatitis was compared using the SCORAD score, and in psoriatic patients — using the PASI index. The extent of itching was assessed using a visual analog scale. The level of neuropeptides in blood serum of the subjects was determined using the enzyme-linked immunoelectrodiffusion assay: substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide as well as nerve growth factor, amphiregulin, an epidermal growth factor, and semaphorin 3A, a nerve repulsion factor. Results. A statistically significant increase in the level of nerve growth factors in blood serum of patients with atopic dermatitis was observed (91.37 ± 16.39 pg/mL) vs. the control group (10.68 ± 8.37 pg/mL) (p < 0.05) as well as increased level of amphiregulin (46.09 ± 5.22 pg/mL) vs. the control group (10.21 ± 2.10) (p < 0.05). A positive correlation between the level of the nerve growth factor and SCORAD score was revealed. Conclusion. The results obtained confirm that nerve growth factors and amphiregulin are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis.