[Interleukin 2 deficiency in pemphigus vulgaris].

The synthesis of interleukin-2 (IL-2) has been determined in 5 patients suffering from pemphigus vulgaris. It is well-known that these lymphokine play an important role with regard to the stimulation of lymphocytes. All 5 patients were treated with auric sodium thiomalate (Tauredon) according to Penney. Therapy with corticosteroids had to be reduced or even interrupted because of their numerous side effects. In comparison to the control group, all 5 patients showed decreased synthesis of interleukin-2. Total T-, T-helper, and T-suppressor lymphocytes were measured by immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies: The number of T-lymphocytes as well as the ratio of OKT4/OKT8 were normal. We discuss the role of deficient synthesis of IL-2 for the formation of auto-antibodies as well as the effect of gold with regard to modulation of the immune response.