Contribution of serum level of CCL28 in the diagnosis and evaluation of Sjögren’s syndrome

Abstract

Through the detection of changes in serum CCL28 content in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), we explored the significance of CCL28 in disease diagnosis and evaluation. Serum samples were collected from patients with SS, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Serum levels of CCL28 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared to healthy controls (HC). We also detected serum IgA levels and the focus score of labial salivary gland (LSG) in patients with SS, and explored the correlation with serum CCL28. In addition, patients with SS were divided into two groups based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. The level of serum CCL28 was then compared. Serum levels of CCL28 in both primary and secondary SS patients were significantly lower than those in the HC group, whereas, serum levels of CCL28 in patients with RA and SLE were not significantly different from those in the HC group. Comparing with RA and SLE patients alone, serum levels of CCL28 were dramatically lower in patients with SS secondary to RA or SLE. No remarkable correlation between serum IgA and CCL28 levels was observed, while focus score of LSG negatively correlated with serum CCL28 levels. Serum levels of CCL28 were lower in patients with SS who suffered from dental carries and thrombocytopenia. Low serum levels of CCL28 should be considered in the diagnosis of SS. Serum CCL28 levels reflect the degree of salivary gland injury. In summary, we concluded that serum CCL28 levels are invaluable in the diagnosis and evaluation of SS.