Serum IL10 and circulating CD4+CD25high regulatory T cell numbers as predictors of clinical outcome and survival in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Background. Patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) commonly have an imbalance in T helper (Th)1/Th2-type cytokines and elevated levels of CD4 + CD25 high regulatory T cells (Treg). Here, we investigated the association of circulating interleukin (IL)10, IL12, and Treg-cells with clinical outcome in patients with HNSCC. Methods. Serum cytokine levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in patients' pretreatment (n = 107) and 4 to 6 weeks posttreatment (n = 43), and in nontumor controls (n = 40). Treg-cell levels were determined by flow cytometry. Results. IL10 detectability was significantly higher in patients than controls (p =.001). Pretreatment IL10 levels in all anatomical subsites, except the oral cavity, were significantly elevated in stages III/IV, N+ patients, and in T3/4-tumors (p =.005,.037, and.001, respectively). The detectability of IL10 significantly correlated with poorer survival after a maximum follow-up of 36 months. Treg-cell levels did not correlate with any clinical parameters. Conclusion. IL10 is a potential independent factor in predicting a poor clinical outcome in newly presenting tumors of laryngeal and pharyngeal origin. The role of circulating Treg-cells as predictors of clinical outcome requires further investigation. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc