Evaluation of Tissue and Serum Levels of Interleukin-15 in Non-Segmental Vitiligo

Abstract Background Vitiligo is a common autoimmune disease of skin depigmentation. The disease presents with many challenges, such as progression, resistance to treatment and recurrence. Recent studies reported a possible role of IL-15 in the pathogenesis, activity and recurrence of the disease. Objective Evaluation of tissue and serum levels of IL-15 in non-segmental vitiligo patients. Methods This Case-control study included 31 participants; 20 vitiligo patients and 11 controls. In patient group, we took serum samples and three punch biopsies (3mm) from active and recurrent vitiliginous patches as well as non-vitiliginous skin. In control group, we took serum sample and one tissue biopsy. IL-15 was assessed by ELISA technique in all samples. Results There was no statistically significant difference between IL-15 levels in tissue and serum of control group. All levels of IL-15 in patients were significantly higher than in control. In patients, level of IL-15 in serum was significantly higher than in active and stable patches but lower than in recurrent patches. IL-15 level, in recurrent patches, was significantly the highest of all parameters. Conclusion IL-15 may have an important role in the pathogenesis, activity and mainly recurrence of vitiligo. It seems to be a potential therapeutic target to control the disease and prevent recurrence.