Relationship among TNF-alpha, sICAM-1, and selenium in presurgical patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms

The purpose of our study was to estimate the utility of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and selenium (Se) measurements as subsidiary parameters for the diagnosis and differentiation of large aortic abdominal aneurysms (AAAs). The TNF and sICAM-1 levels in AAAs were significantly higher than in the controls. On the contrary, the Se level in AAAs was slightly lower; however, the difference was not significant. sICAM-1 did not correlate with TNF or Se as well as with any physical parameter. TNF was related to body mass index (r = 0.375). A negative correlation was found for Se and the aneurysm's diameter (r = -0.382), especially for the height-adjusted diameter (r = -0.418). The results of the present study do not allow one to count TNF and sICAM-1 as markers of AAA advancement. It was shown for the first time that the level of serum Se is low in ruptured aneurysms, but not in the unruptured AAAs.