Abstract:

Objectives   To detect CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in peripheral blood of patients with vitiligo, and to evaluate immunomodulator′s therapeutic effects. Methods   36 patients with vitiligo were selected, including 24 with active vitiligo and 12 with stationary vitiligo. The level of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in peripheral blood was detected by flow cytometry before and after treatment with immunomodulator, 20 healthy subjects as controls. Results   CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in active vitiligo were significantly lower than in normal controls(P<0.05).  There was no statistical difference between stationary vitiligo and normal controls(P＞0.05). CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in active vitiligo increased after comprehensive treatment with immunomodulator(P<0.05); while there was no statistical difference in stationary vitiligo after treatment with immunomodulator(P＞0.05). Conclusion   CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells could control the autoimmune reaction by inhibiting autoreactive T cells. The abnormal number of CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in peripheral blood may cause imbalance of immunity. Polysaccharide nucleic acid fraction of bacillus calmette guerin(BCGPSN) could modulate the cell immune function by regulating the level of CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells and plays therapeutic effects.

Key words: Vitiligo; CD4+CD25+Foxp3+regulatory T cells; Polysaccharide nucleic acid fraction of bacillus calmette guerin; Immunoregulation