Interleukin 12 is associated with cerebral atrophy in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus

Methods We included consecutive cSLE followed at the pediatric rheumatology unit of the State University of Campinas were enrolled in this study. The control group was consisted by age and sex matched healthy individuals. A complete clinical, laboratory and neurological evaluation was performed in all subjects. Neurological manifestations were analyzed according to the ACR classification criteria. Mood and anxiety disorders were determined through Becks Depression and Becks Anxiety Inventory.SLE patients were further assessed for clinical and laboratory SLE manifestations, disease activity [SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI)], damage [Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI)] and current drug exposures. Total dose of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressant medications used since the onset of disease were calculated by data obtained by careful review of the medical charts. MRI scans were performed in a 3T Phillipsscanner using a standardized protocol. Sagittal T1 weighted images were used for semiautomatic volumetric measurements. Volumes smaller 2 standard deviation from the means of controls were considered abnormal. Total dose of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressant medications used since the onset of disease were calculated by data obtained by careful review of the medical charts. Sera samples were obtained from all participants in the absence of infections. Th1 (IL-12, IFN-g, TNF-a) and Th2 (IL-4, 5, 6 and 10) cytokines sera levels were measured by ELISA using commercial kits. Data were compared by nonparametric tests.