Abstract
Purpose:
High serum levels of sIL-2R have been reported in acute inflammations and in several types of cancer, especially in the metastatic stage. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential of increased sIL-2R levels to predict metastatic uveal melanoma (UM).
Methods:
Serum levels of sIL-2R were analyzed by ELISA. The study included a total of 152 subjects: 74 patients with metastasis (Mets), 42 10-year disease-fee (10yDF) patients, and 36 healthy controls (CTRL). Patients were followed up biannually with liver US for the presence of Mets. Blood samples were obtained from the time of primary diagnosis, and on every follow-up visit. Sera from before and after the diagnosis of metastases were assessed by a matched pairs analysis for the 74 Mets patients.
Results:
The mean±SE (range) sIL-2R levels for the 3 groups were: 575±41 (107- 1257), 780±60 (313- 1830), and 1401±146 (380- 8969) U/ml for CTRL, 10yDF, and Mets, respectively (p= 0.03).
Conclusions:
Significantly higher serum sIL-2R levels were shown in UM pts with metastases. Significant increases in sIL-2R levels on serial evaluations indicate the development of UM metastases, enabling earlier treatment for a better survival of those patients.
Keywords: 589 melanoma •
744 tumors