The sequential assay of interleukin-10 and 13 serum levels in relation to radiographic changes during pulmonary tuberculosis treatment

BACKGROUND: We evaluated the sequential changes of interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-13 serum levels with tuberculosis (TB)-related radiographic changes during pulmonary TB (PTB) treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study during two consecutive years, forty cases with PTB were recorded, and finally, 24 cases were completed the study. Serum levels of IL-10 and IL-13 were measured on admission time, and 6 months later. Furthermore, chest radiography was performed on admission and 6 months later in the treatment course. RESULTS: Radiography at the baseline indicated pulmonary infiltration in all patients (n = 24). Fifteen (62.5%) cases had abnormal and 9 (37.5%) cases had normal radiography at the end of 6 months treatment course. IL-10 and IL-13 upregulated during the treatment time course, and their relationship with radiographic changes shifted from negative (r = −0.14 and P = 0.71) on admission to positive (r = 0.80 and P < 0.001) at the end of 6 months treatment course in normal radiography group. IL-10 level at the start of the treatment was 121.90 ± 88.81 in patients with normal and 82.68 ± 41.50 in patients with abnormal radiography (P = 0.31). CONCLUSION: Sequential increase in IL-10 and IL-13 during PTB treatment course may have a role in clearing the TB-related radiographic infiltration and preventing scar formation.