Comparison of Inflammatory Markers in Pre and Post-Menopausal Women During First and Second Waves of COVID-19

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 SARS-CoV-2 has had profound global effect. Certain populations including post-menopausal women have shown increased susceptibility to severe outcomes. This study explored the association between menopausal status and COVID-19 outcomes focusing on inflammatory markers. Elevated markers like Interleukin-6 IL-6 ferritin and C-Reactive Protein CRP have been linked to severe COVID-19 and could be influenced by hormonal changes during menopause.Methodology Data from Abhaya Hospital in Bengaluru Karnataka covering the period between March 2020 and September 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Pre-and post-menopausal women aged 12 years and above who tested positive for COVID-19 via RTPCR were included. Inflammatory markers IL-6 ferritin Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate ESR C-Reactive Protein CRP Creatine Phosphokinase CPK Lactate Dehydrogenase LDH D-Dimer were compared between the two groups using appropriate laboratory methods. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 19.Results Post-menopausal women exhibited significantly higher levels of IL-6 P0.03 ferritin P0.034 and CRP P0.004 compared to pre-menopausal women during both waves of COVID-19. ESR showed a notable increase P0.1 in post-menopausal women although not statistically significant. No significant differences were observed in CPK P0.07 LDH P0.2 or D-Dimer P0.12 levels between the two groups.Conclusion The study revealed that post-menopausal women have a pro-inflammatory profile characterized by elevated IL-6 ferritin and CRP levels which are associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of considering menopausal status in COVID-19 management and highlight the need for personalized healthcare strategies for this vulnerable group. Further research should investigate underlying mechanisms and potential interventions.