Increased memory Th17 cells in patients with neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis.

OBJECT: To investigate the clinical relevance of memory Th17 cells in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) or multiple sclerosis (MS).

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

The proportion of peripheral memory Th17 cells was determined by flow cytometry. Sera IL-17A and IL-23 levels were detected by ELISA kits.

RESULTS

Memory Th17 proportion and IL-17A level were much higher in patients with NMO or MS and were related to clinical features. After high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) therapy, memory Th17 proportion and IL-17A and IL-23 levels were decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Memory Th17 is related to the development and relapse of NMO and MS, and IVMP can inhibit memory Th17.