Analysis of the cytokine profile (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, IFN - γ and TNF-α) on threatened miscarriage

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of our study was to analyze the cytokine profile in threatened miscarriage, defined as vaginal bleeding and uterine contractions with a closed cervix, occurring before the end of week 22 of gestation. Materials and methods: The study included 46 women hospitalized at the Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinical Hospital. Group 1 comprised of 14 patients diagnosed with threatened miscarriage, prior to pharmacological treatment. Group 2 comprised of 20 patients with identical diagnoses. The patients were administered drotaverine hydrochloride (3x40 mg) and progesterone transvaginally (2x100 mg). Group 3 constituted the control group, comprising of 12 women in normally-progressing pregnancy, before completing week 22 of gestation. Results: The present analysis was focused on the cytokine profile of the women included in the study, but no considerable changes in cytokine concentration were observed. The results of determining the IFN-γ and TNF-α, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL- 10, IL-17, and CRP levels in all groups proved to be comparable; moreover, no considerable differences were found in the CRP level or vaginal flora. Conclusions: The present authors failed to identify any significant differences in the cytokine profile between patients in normally-progressing pregnancy and patients diagnosed with threatened miscarriage. This finding needs to be confirmed in a study in a larger group of pregnant women.