Prevalence of non-genital warts generated by human papillomaviruses and role of interleukins IL10, IL17, and hematological parameters

Abstract

Background. The Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are among the most prevalent human infections, with a spectrum of skin-related symptoms ranging from benign warts to malignant carcinomas. Warts, characterized by verrucous and exophytic lesions, result from HPV infection of basal keratinocytes. This study aimed to investigate IL-10, IL-17, and certain hematological parameters in patients with cutaneous warts. Method. The study was conducted between August 2023 and January 2024, involving 103 patients aged 8–60 years, all diagnosed with cutaneous warts. Molecular detection was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blood samples were collected from both the patient group and healthy controls for complete blood count (CBC) analysis using automated hematology analyzers. Serum samples were also examined for IL-10 and IL-17 levels. Results. Skin warts caused by HPV were clinically diagnosed through dermatologist examination. Of the 103 patients, 59 were male (57.28%) and 44 were female (42.72%), aged 8–60 years. Fifty healthy controls – 26 males (52%) and 24 females (48%), ages 10–58 years – were included. The mean serum IL-10 level among patients with HPV infection was 11.2 ± 5.37 pg/ml, significantly higher than the healthy controls (6.22 ± 2.0 pg/ml, p < 0.001). Similarly, IL-17 levels were also significantly elevated in patients (23.9 ± 7 pg/ml) compared to controls (12.3 ± 3.2 pg/ml, p < 0.001). Conclusion. Serum levels of IL-10 and IL-17 were notably higher in individuals with HPV infection compared to healthy controls. IL-10 promotes an immunosuppressive state and contributes to wart development, while IL-17 may influence the persistence and pathogenesis of viral warts.