Assessing Cytokines and Immunoglobulins (IgG subclass) Markers in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Infections

Abstract

Understanding the interaction between cytokines and immunoglobulins in immune responses to infection is crucial for elucidating the mechanisms of immunity and developing diagnostic biomarkers. This study aimed to assess the levels of key cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17) and immunoglobulin IgG and its subclasses (IgG1–4) in cutaneous leishmaniasis-infected and non-infected individuals, stratified by gender, age, and clinical status. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 individuals with cutaneous leishmaniasis (52 males and 52 females). Immunoglobulins and IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17 were measured by ELISA. Statistical analyses included mean comparisons (T-test, ANOVA), standard deviations, and correlation coefficients. Significant differences were noted in IFN-γ (p = 0.025), IgG1 (p = 0.011), and IgG4 (p = 0.02) levels between infected and non-infected groups. Sex-specific variations were observed, with higher IgG3 in males (p = 0.034) and elevated IL-10 in females (p = 0.024). Strong correlations were detected between IL-4 and IgG1 (r = 0.77, p < 0.01) and between IL-10 and IgG1 (r = 0.86, p < 0.01). This study highlights the dynamic relationship between humoral and cellular immune markers, suggesting their potential as biomarkers for stratifying infection. Sex significantly affects these profiles, confirming the need for personalized immunological assessments.