Differential Gene Expression for Interleukin-13 and Other Cytokines in the Skin of Atopic Dermatitis Patients and Healthy Subjects

T helper cells are thought to be of importance in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD)(1,2). Most patients with (AD) have elevated serum IgE levels(2–4). Allergens stimulate a certain population of T helper cells, the Th2-cells, that produce high amounts of interleukin-4 (IL-4), and relative low amounts of interferon-γ (IFN-γ)(5). IL-4 stimulates B-cells to IgE production(6). Bacteria and viruses induce the activation of Thl-cells, resulting in IFN-γ production and as a result we see a delayed hypersensitivity reaction (e.g.)(7)