Evaluation of Serum Lipocalin-2 Levels and Its Relation to Insulin Resistance in Patients with Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Authors information: 1- M.B.CH.B Erbil University Iraq 2- M.D. Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University. 3- M.D. Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology. Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University. Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. It is characterized by the formation of non-inflammatory comedones and inflammatory papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. Acne is extremely common and usually starts during the teenage years but can start for the first time in their 20s and 30s. The lesions usually involve the face, back and chest. Psychosocial impact of acne can be tremendous and lead to a poorer quality of life. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is an attractive biomarker of inflammation, ischemia, infection, and kidney damage. Aim of the study: The current study aimed to evaluate serum Lipocalin-2 levels in inflammatory acne vulgaris patients and to reveal the possible relation between its serum levels and the insulin resistance status in patients. Patients and methods: The study included 60 patients suffering from inflammatory acne vulgaris and 60 healthy control subjects. Full general and dermatological examination were performed, recording of BMI, GAGS score was done. Then, measurement of fasting insulin and fasting glucose was performed to calculate HOMAIR. Results: Serum fasting insulin and HOMAIR levels were significantly higher in acne patients compared to control subjects. Correlation of HOMAIR with fasting glucose revealed statistically significant positive correlation.