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Interleukin 6 Levels and Disease Activity in Takayasu Arteritis: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis
Ana Luisa Souza Pedreira1, Marília Leite de Castro Flores, Mittermayer Barreto Santiago
1From the Escola Bahiana de Medicina e Saúde Pública, Medicine, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
Summary
Interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels are significantly elevated in active Takayasu arteritis (aTA) patients compared to inactive (iTA) and healthy controls (HCs). IL-6 is a potential biomarker for aTA disease activity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is investigated as a potential biomarker for Takayasu arteritis (TA) disease activity.
- Distinguishing between active (aTA) and inactive (iTA) disease states is crucial for effective TA management.
Approach:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 10 studies involving 1825 patients.
- IL-6 levels were compared between aTA, iTA, and healthy controls (HCs) using random-effects models.
- Study quality and risk of bias were rigorously assessed using established checklists.
Key Points:
- Pooled IL-6 levels showed a clear gradient: HCs (3.08 pg/mL), iTA (7.21 pg/mL), and aTA (22.67 pg/mL).
- Patients with aTA exhibited significantly higher IL-6 levels than both HCs and iTA patients.
- No significant difference in IL-6 levels was observed between HCs and iTA patients.
Conclusions:
- IL-6 levels are significantly elevated in active Takayasu arteritis, suggesting its utility as a biomarker for disease activity.
- Further research is required to determine a definitive IL-6 cutoff value for assessing TA disease activity.
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