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Cytokines in acute rheumatic fever
1Akdeniz University, Medical School, Department of Paediatrics, Antalya, Turkey.
European Journal of Pediatrics
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are linked to acute rheumatic fever. These inflammatory cytokines may contribute to the disease
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Rheumatic fever (RF) is an inflammatory condition following streptococcal infection.
- Inflammatory cytokines are key mediators in immune responses and inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of specific inflammatory cytokines in the pathogenesis of rheumatic fever.
- To quantify plasma levels of IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF alpha in RF patients.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure cytokine concentrations.
- Patient groups included acute RF, RF with arthritis (RFA), and RF with heart disease (RHD).
- Cytokine levels were assessed before, during, and after treatment.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in TNF alpha, IL-8, and IL-6 were observed during the acute phase of RF compared to post-treatment.
- Elevated cytokines were found in most RFA and RHD patients.
- Higher TNF alpha and IL-8 levels were noted in RHD patients with cardiac failure.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that TNF alpha, IL-8, and IL-6 play a pathogenic role in rheumatic fever.
- These cytokines may serve as biomarkers for disease activity and severity.