Inactive systemic lupus erythematosus is associated with a normal stimulated TH₁/TH₂ cytokine secretory pattern

Objectives - To determine the Th₁/Th₂ balance in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with inactive disease. Methods - A comprehensive analysis of peak secretion, overall cytokine production and secretory pattern of Th₁ and Th₂ cytokines from stimulated PBMC of 10 SLE patients with inactive disease and 10 age- and sex-matched controls. Results - No significant differences were found in the peak and total secretion of all cytokines, as well as in the Th₁ and Th₂ secretory patterns and proliferative response between the two groups. Conclusion - Th₁ and Th₂ balance in inactive SLE is normal. (C) 2000 Academic Press.