Background

Inherited deficiencies of IL-10 or IL-10 receptor (IL-10R) lead to immune dysregulation with life-threatening early-onset enterocolitis.

Objectives

We sought to gather clinical data of IL-10/IL-10R-deficient patients and devise guidelines for diagnosis and management, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

We enrolled 40 patients with early-onset enterocolitis and screened for mutations in IL10/IL10R using genetic studies, functional studies, or both of the IL-10 signaling pathway. Medical records of IL-10/IL-10R-deficient patients were reviewed and compiled.

Results

Of 40 patients, we identified 7 with novel mutations, predominantly in consanguineous families with more than 1 affected member. IL-10/IL-10R-deficient patients had intractable enterocolitis, perianal disease, and fistula formation. HSCT was carried out in 2 patients with IL-10 deficiency and 1 patient with IL-10R α chain deficiency and proved to be an effective therapy, leading to rapid improvement of clinical symptoms and quality of life.

Conclusion

Because the defect in patients with IL-10/IL-10R deficiency resides in hematopoietic lineage cells and their colitis is resistant to standard immunosuppressive therapy, HSCT should be considered early as a potentially curative therapeutic option.