Enhanced production of CC-chemokines (RANTES, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and eotaxin) in patients with atopic dermatitis

CC-chemokines are potent molecules that direct the migration of leukocytes to inflammatory foci. To determine their role in inflammation associated with atopic dermatitis (AD), we determined serum levels and spontaneous production of CC-chemokines by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in AD patients using an ELISA. Serum levels of RANTES, MCP-1, MIP-1 beta, and eotaxin were increased in AD patients (n = 52) compared with normal controls (n = 22). Serum levels of RANTES, MCP-1, and MIP-1 beta were increased in AD patients with severe disease (n = 19) compared with normal controls (n = 22). Spontaneous production of RANTES, MCP-1, MIP-1 alpha and MIP-1 beta by PBMC was augmented in AD patients (n = 39) and in patients with severe AD (n = 14) compared with normal controls (n = 20). Serum RANTES levels correlated with total serum IgE levels, eosinophil numbers, and serum lactate dehydrogenase levels. Our results suggest that augmented production of CC-chemokines correlates with inflammation associated with AD.