Circulating and synovial levels of IGF-I, cytokines, physical function and anthropometry differ in women awaiting total knee arthroplasty when compared to men

Abstract

Purpose: Determine if gender differences in osteoarthritis relate to cytokine and growth factor levels. Methods: Cross-sectional comparison of serum and synovial concentrations of cytokines (IL-1αβ, TNF-α, IL-6), growth factors (IGF-I, TGF-β, IRAP), physical performance and perceived function in total knee arthroplasty candidates (TKAC) ( n = 17) and healthy controls ( n = 21) was done. Results: Serum IGF-I values were reduced in female (TKAC 137.6 ± 7.2; Controls 160.2 ± 26.2) but not male TKAC (TKAC 182.6 ± 18.4; Controls 184.0 ± 18.4) ( p < 0.05).). Serum and synovial levels of cytokines and growth factors did not differ significantly by group or gender. Physical performance testing (SPW, TUG) revealed significant group and gender differences ( p = 0.001) with women demonstrating greater functional impairment. Discussion: A systemic, not local component to OA pathophysiology may exist for female TKAC. Male TKAC were less impaired, and their IGF-I levels differ little from Control values.