Meta-analysis for alterations of IFN-γ, TNF-α and granzyme B levels in vitiligo patients.

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune skin depigmenting condition. IFN-γ, TNF-α and granzyme B play key roles in vitiligo pathogenesis, some findings suggest their roles may be contradictory.

Objective: We aimed to assess IFN-γ, TNF-α and granzyme B levels in blood and skin of vitiligo patients using a meta-analysis approach. Additionally, we evaluated their association with disease activity.

Methods: A Meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software. A total of 55 studies including 3,023 vitiligo patients and 2,534 controls were included in the study.

Results: Pooled results from our meta-analysis indicated significantly elevated IFN-γ protein and transcript levels in blood and skin of vitiligo patients (p < 0.05). TNF-α protein levels were also significantly increased in blood and skin of vitiligo patients (p < 0.05). IFN-γ and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the lesional skin as compared to non-lesional skin (p < 0.05). Furthermore, elevated levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α were observed in patients with active vitiligo (p < 0.05). Additionally, our study suggested a significant increase in granzyme B levels in vitiligo patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Overall, the meta-analysis suggests that IFN-γ, TNF-α and granzyme B play a crucial role in vitiligo pathogenesis and progression and may serve as potential therapeutic targets for managing the disease. The PROSPERO registration no. for meta-analysis is CRD42024620274.