To Study the Expression of S100 and Factor XIIIa as immune markers in leprosy

ABSTRACT: Background: Macrophages are critical for the lysis of bacteria in the defence against Mycobacterium leprae. However, cytokines from lymphocytes, such as interleukin 2 and gamma interferon, are also necessary for the effective killing of the organisms. In this study, S100 and factor XIIIa were assessed by Immunohistochemistry on the cutaneous lesions of 45 leprosy cases. Aim: To study the role of S100 and Factor XIIIa as immune markers in leprosy. Study design: Cross sectional study. Methods: Skin biopsies of clinically suspected leprosy were stained for histopathological examination, and Immunohistochemistry examination was carried out for S100 and factor XIIIa. Result: S100 expression was studied over macrophages and factor XIIIa on dermal dendrocytes. S100 positivity was seen in the lepromatous leprosy spectrum, while Factor XIIIa was observed in tuberculoid, with few indeterminant and histoid cases showing immunoreactivity. Conclusions: IHC markers can be used as an auxiliary technique to support histopathological diagnosis and aid in early and more specific diagnosis in early leprosy cases, assessing the host's immune status. Therefore, it can guide early initiation of treatment, modification of regimes and follow-up schedules. Keywords: Leprosy, Immunity, S100, Factor XIIIa