Evaluation of serum levels of IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-a in alopecia areata patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: The role of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines in autoimmune inflammatory disorders has always been discussed; several studies have assayed serum levels Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-10 (IL-10) alopecia areata (AA) patients. Determining the cytokine profile AA patients will help us understand immune system pathogenesis AA. Due to a lack comprehensive this regard, we performed meta-analysis evaluate previously mentioned Methods: We explored PubMed, Scopus, web science, ScienceDirect databases for research without limited start date until May 2021. A number 1098 were found initial database search reference lists relevant studies; 16 finally included meta-analysis. Differences IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10 sera controls pooled as standardized mean differences. random-effects model was used study. Begg's Egger's tests carried out investigate publication bias. Results: included. This study significantly elevated IL-6 compared healthy subjects (SMD = 1.57, 95% CI 0.17 2.97). TNF-α also higher 2.05, 0.98 3.13). Though lower patients, difference not significant -0.22, -0.95 0.50). Conclusion: According crucial autoimmunity, alternation unexpected; our shows that might an essential AA, though further are needed clarify exact emergence persistence