Increased memory Th17 cells in patients with neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis

Object: To investigate the clinical relevance of memory Th17 cells in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) or multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients and methods: The proportion of peripheral memory Th17 cells was determined by flow cytometry. Sera IL-17A and IL-23 levels were detected by ELISA kits. Results: Memory Th17 proportion and IL-17A level were much higher in patients with NMO or MS and were related to clinical features. After high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) therapy, memory Th17 proportion and IL-17A and IL-23 levels were decreased. Conclusions: Memory Th17 is related to the development and relapse of NMO and MS, and IVMP can inhibit memory Th17. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.