Exploratory study of neutrophil extra cellular traps (NETs) as diagnostic biomarkers in psoriatic arthritis patients

Abstract

Objectives. Neutrophils are implicated in the development of numerous autoimmune diseases, exhibiting an increased ability to generate neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are considered potential contributors to psoriatic arthritis (PsA) pathogenesis. This study aimed to assess the serum levels of NETs as diagnostic biomarkers of PsA and to correlate these levels with parameters of disease activity. Materials and methods. The study included a cohort of 30 PsA patients and 30 matched healthy controls. Serum levels of NETs were measured in PsA patients and controls. The Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis (DAPSA) was assessed. Results. Serum NETs levels were lower in PsA patients (4096 ± 1841) compared to controls (4055 ± 835), with no significant difference observed (p = 0.056). A significant positive correlation was found between NETs and age (p = 0.021). However, no significant correlations were observed between NETs and skin disease duration, joint disease duration, patient pain assessment, patient global assessment, DAPSA score, or the Leeds Enthesitis Index. Conclusions. Serum NETs levels exhibited a modest reduction in PsA patients compared to controls, though not statistically significant. Given the small sample size, these findings should be regarded as preliminary. Further, larger longitudinal studies are required to substantiate these observations and clarify the clinical relevance of NETs as a potential biomarker or therapeutic target in PsA.