Aqueous and Serum Interferon γ, Interleukin (IL) 2, IL-4, and IL-10 in Patients With Uveitis

Objective To determine the cytokine profile in aqueous humor and peripheral blood from patients with uveitis. Methods Cytokines (interferon [IFN]–γ, interleukin [IL] 2, IL-4, and IL-10) were measured in aqueous humor and peripheral blood samples from 23 patients with uveitis and 16 patients undergoing operation for uncomplicated cataracts (control group) by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Aqueous and serum samples from patients with uveitis showed higher levels of IFN-γ and IL-2 than those of controls ( P P =.002). No differences were found between uveitis and control groups for aqueous and serum IL-4 or aqueous IL-10 levels. In patients with uveitis, IFN-γ levels were significantly higher in serum than aqueous ( P P r =0.44; P =.03). Conclusions Aqueous and serum levels of IFN-γ and IL-2 were elevated in patients with uveitis, suggesting a predominantly type 1 response (high IFN-γ and low IL-4 levels). Elevated serum IFN-γ level seems to predispose the patient to more serious loss of vision.