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CD40 expression on antigen-expressing cells: A correlation with disease severity in atopic dermatitis

CD40 is known to be upregulated on inflammatory cells in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients but the identity of these cells and their relationship to disease severity is unknown. To address these issues, CD40 expression in skin lesions and peripheral blood cells was determined in 30 AD patients and 10 healthy controls. A positive correlation was found between the numbers of CD40+ cells and AD severity. Moreover, the nature of CD40+ cells included CD1a+ and CD11b+ antigen-presenting cells (APCs). A correlation between serum PARC, IgE levels and the number of CD40+ cells in AD skin lesions was also found. These data imply that CD40 is upregulated on APCs and suggest therapeutic strategies ...