Cytokine changes in patients with heatstroke during pilgrimage to Makkah
1997

Cytokine Changes in Patients with Heatstroke

Sample size: 26 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): I. A. Hashim, A. Al-Zeer, S. Al-Shohaib, M. Al-Ahwal, A. Shenkin

Primary Institution: King Khalid National Guard Hospital

Hypothesis

The study investigates the correlation between cytokine levels and outcomes in patients with heatstroke.

Conclusion

Elevated levels of IL-6, TNFsr-II, IL-1ra, and CRP in heatstroke patients are associated with poor outcomes.

Supporting Evidence

  • IL-6 levels declined in survivors but increased in non-survivors.
  • Admission TNFsr-II concentrations were significantly lower in survivors than in non-survivors.
  • Markedly elevated IL-1ra levels were observed in both groups.
  • CRP levels remained elevated despite cooling in both groups.

Takeaway

This study found that certain proteins in the blood can help doctors understand how serious heatstroke is and predict if someone might survive.

Methodology

Blood samples were collected from patients and analyzed for cytokine levels using ELISA kits.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and some cytokine levels were above the assay limits, limiting statistical analysis.

Participant Demographics

Patients aged 30 to 75 years, with a median age of 60; 8 males and 18 females.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.005

Statistical Significance

p<0.005

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