Cytokine Levels in Meningitis and Septic Shock
Author Information
Author(s): Anders Waage, Alfred Halstensen, Terje Espevik, Petter Brandtzaeg
Primary Institution: University of Trondheim
Hypothesis
How does the permeability of the blood-brain barrier influence the distribution of cytokines in patients with meningococcal meningitis and septic shock?
Conclusion
The study found that TNF and IL-6 are compartmentalized to the subarachnoid space in patients with meningitis, while in septic shock, these cytokines are present in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid.
Supporting Evidence
- Median levels of TNF in CSF were significantly higher in meningitis patients compared to serum.
- IL-6 levels were also significantly higher in CSF than in serum for meningitis patients.
- Patients with septic shock showed no significant difference in IL-6 levels between CSF and serum.
Takeaway
In patients with meningitis, certain proteins are mostly found in the brain fluid, but in those with septic shock, they are found in both the brain fluid and blood.
Methodology
Paired samples of cerebrospinal fluid and serum were obtained from patients, and cytokine levels were measured using specific assays.
Limitations
The study did not explore the long-term effects of cytokine levels or the impact of treatment on these levels.
Participant Demographics
32 male and 28 female patients, age range 2-93 years, with 63% aged 10-20 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
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