PRE-DIAGNOSTIC SERUM LEVELS OF INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN PATIENTS WITH FIBROMYALGIA

Abstract

Background: Fibromyalgia is characterised by fatigue, sleep disruption and pain perception. The aetiology of this syndrome is still unclear. Central sensitization is considered to be a major mechanism of action and other factors may be involved including hormonal, genetic and immunological factors. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the role of different interleukins and matrix metalloproteinases in the development of fibromyalgia. Method: Complete blood count (CBC) profile of 50 patients and 50 controls were measured on automated haematology blood analyser. The levels of Interleukins IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-17, IL-18, IL-1? and IL-1-RA were measured using commercially available kits. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2, 7, and 9 were analysed by ELISA kit assay. Results: The mean values of IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7 and IL-9 were significantly increased in the patients with fibromyalgia when compared to control individuals. Elevated trends of IL-8, IL-17, IL-18, IL-1? and IL-1-RA were recorded in the patients with fibromyalgia as compared to control individuals respectively. The mean values of MMP-2, MMP-7 and MMP-9 were significantly increased in the patients with fibromyalgia as compared to control individuals. Conclusion The levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-17, IL-18, IL-1? and IL-1-RA were significantly higher among the fibromyalgia patients as compared to controls. These inflammatory markers may have prominent role in the development and progression of disease condition.

Pak J Physiol 2022;18(2):31–4