Comprehensive Analysis of the Chemokine/Cytokine Profiles in Advanced Mycosis Fungoides and Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is an indolent form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Its early lesions are important to be distinguished from atopic dermatitis (AD) because of their similar immune microenvironment. We have previously demonstrated that several chemokines are involved in the pathogenesis of advanced MF. Therefore, we sought to comprehensively analyze the changes in the immune environment during the advanced phase of MF by focusing on serum cytokines and chemokines and to identify potential biomarkers for the early detection of the transition to the advanced phase of MF. Sera from 11 cases of advanced-stage MF, 16 cases of mild AD (median EASI score = 5.75), 16 cases of severe AD (median EASI score = 28.1), and 21 healthy volunteers were analyzed using the Bio-Plex 40 multiplex immunoassay system. The results revealed significant increases in immunosuppressive macrophage-related factors (IL-4, MIF, CCL3) in MF patients compared to those with AD and healthy controls. In contrast, IL-2, CCL1, CCL7, CCL21, CCL25, and CCL26 were significantly increased in severe AD patients compared to MF patients and healthy controls. Our findings suggest that several chemokines and cytokines contribute to an immunosuppressive environment favorable for tumor growth, distinguishing MF from AD. Moreover, T-cell proliferation and migration factors, which are mainly involved in maintaining inflammation, are elevated in severe AD compared to MF. In addition to elucidating the differences in the pathogenesis of these diseases, these factors may be important in the differential diagnosis of early MF and AD. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings.