Evaluation of the Relationship between Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Levels and Clinical Findings of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

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Alp A.

Iranian Journal of Immunology, vol.1, no.4, pp.1-4, 2021 (Journal Indexed in SCI Expanded)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 1 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2021
  • Title of Journal : Iranian Journal of Immunology
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-4

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study is to examine the serum levels of immune mediators and their relationship between the symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS).

Materials and Methods: 25 healthy individuals and 29 FMS patients using pregabalin 150 mg/day for at least 3 months were included in the study. FMS patients were determined according to American College of Rheumatology (ACR 2010) diagnostic criteria. Widespread pain index (WSI), fatigue, waking unrefreshed, cognitive symptoms, somatic symptoms, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) scores were evaluated in patients with FMS. Serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17, IFN-γ, TNF-α) were evaluated by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: Pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were higher in the control group than patients with FMS (p<0.05). A positive correlation was found between age and WSI (p=0.037). In addition, a significant positive relationship was determined between IL-17 level and waking unrefreshed (p=0.049). There was no significant relationship between other cytokines and clinical findings.

Conclusion: Lower pro-inflammatory cytokine levels identified in FMS patients may be related to pregabaline treatment and there may be an impairment in the inflammatory response. On the contrary, a significant positive correlation is found between clinical findings and the levels of the inflammatory cytokine IL-17.