Cytokine Production in Gynaecological Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): U. Elsasser-Beile, S. von Kleist, W. Sauther, H. Gallati, J. Schulte Mdnting
Primary Institution: Institute of Immunobiology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg
Hypothesis
Is cellular immunity depressed in patients with gynaecological carcinomas and is there a correlation between cytokine levels and tumor burden?
Conclusion
The study found that cytokine production is significantly lower in patients with gynaecological carcinomas compared to healthy controls, and this decrease correlates with the advancement of tumor stage.
Supporting Evidence
- Cytokine levels were significantly lower in cancer patients compared to healthy controls.
- IFN-gamma production decreased with increasing tumor burden.
- Patients with advanced cancer stages had the lowest cytokine levels.
Takeaway
Patients with certain types of cancer make less of important immune signals called cytokines, especially as their cancer gets worse.
Methodology
The study measured cytokine levels in blood samples from cancer patients and healthy controls using a whole blood cell culture system and enzyme-linked immunoassays.
Limitations
The study did not account for potential confounding factors that could affect cytokine levels.
Participant Demographics
239 untreated female patients aged 23 to 89 with gynaecological cancers and 191 healthy female controls aged 20 to 72.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001 for IFN-gamma, p<0.01 for IL-1-alpha and IL-2
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website