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Decreased arginase levels in pediatric atopic dermatitis

Arginase activity was determined in 15 pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and compared with those in 6 controls to determine whether arginase and AD were linked. AD patients had decreased granulocytic arginase activity compared to controls (362 vs. 520 nM; p<0.05). Granulocytes are the principal source of inducible arginase in the body and their stimulation indirectly increases serum arginase levels. Serum arginase is known to be raised in psoriatic and chronic wound biopsies. Further work is required to fully evaluate the link between AD and arginase levels (Dimitriades, V.R. et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol [Annu Meet Am Acad Allergy Asthma Immunol (AAAAI) (March 13-17, Washington) 2009] 2009, 123 (2, ...