Role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in predicting gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common pregnancy-associated metabolic disorder that is steadily increasing worldwide. Early diagnosis of pregnant women susceptible to GDM is the first step for deploying effective preventive treatment to reduce maternal, fetal, and neonatal complications. The diagnostic process of GDM is still controversial and interleukin-6 (IL-6) is one of the most recent markers used for the diagnosis of GDM. In this study, we aimed to systematically review the role of IL-6 in the diagnosis of GDM. In this systematic review, Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, ISI Web of Science, ProQuest, and MEDLINE databases were searched using the following keywords: GDM, screening, and IL-6, with the time interval 2009-2020. The quality of articles was assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist. Twenty-four articles with desired quality that met the inclusion criteria were selected and reviewed further. Sixteen studies showed a statistically significant association, while 8 studies did not report any relationship between IL-6 levels and GDM. Based on the results of these studies, assessing the serum IL-6 levels can be investigated a newly established diagnostic biomarker for GDM. Therefore, through early diagnosis of susceptible women, effective measures can be implemented to reduce its complications.