The Role of Cytokine Biomarkers in Assessing Lumbar Degenerative Disorders and Associated Comorbid Conditions

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DOI: 10.21522/TIJPH.2013.13.01.Art016

Authors : G. Bhavani Sujatha, Arockia Alex, M. Yuvaraj, V. Subhashini Rani, Divya Agrawal

Abstract:

Interleukins, a category of cytokines, are crucial in the inflammatory mechanisms associated with Lumbar degenerative disorders (LDD). This study evaluated the correlation between cytokine biomarkers and demographic, socioeconomic, and occupational factors in persons diagnosed with LDD. An investigation was carried out on 112 patients diagnosed with low back pain (LBP) at GSL from December 2021 to January 2023 Medical College, Rajahmundry. The concentrations of interleukins (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, and IL-13) in the blood were quantified utilizing multiplex fluorescent antibody assays. The study included 62 males and 50 females, with a mean age of 48.3 years. A notable correlation existed between increased IL-6 levels and patients with LBP compared to controls (P < 0.05). Positive relationships were seen between IL-6 levels and age, body mass index (BMI), and illness duration. Extended sitting and socioeconomic status were significant risk factors for low back pain (P = 0.042). Patients diagnosed with degenerative disc disease (DDD) and spinal stenosis (SS) had elevated levels of IL-6 compared to persons with disc herniation (DH). Elevated circulating levels of IL-6 are correlated with LDD and demonstrate an association with age, BMI, and symptom duration. Socioeconomic factors and work practices significantly influence the occurrence of LBP. The findings suggest that cytokine biomarkers, particularly IL-6, may serve as significant indicators for assessing the severity and course of LDD. It is recommended that we undertake further extensive investigations to validate these findings and explore therapy strategies centred on cytokine regulation.

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