Cytokine Levels in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Author Information
Author(s): N. Konuk, I. O. Tekın, U. Ozturk, L. Atik, N. Atasoy, S. Bektas, A. Erdogan
Primary Institution: Zonguldak Karaelmas University
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the plasma levels of the cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in OCD patients.
Conclusion
OCD patients showed increases in TNF-α and IL-6 levels compared to healthy controls.
Supporting Evidence
- Both TNF-α and IL-6 levels showed statistically significant increases in OCD patients compared to controls.
- The age of onset was negatively correlated with TNF-α level.
- Duration of illness was weakly correlated with IL-6 levels in the patient group.
Takeaway
People with OCD have higher levels of certain chemicals in their blood that are linked to inflammation.
Methodology
Plasma concentrations of TNF-α and IL-6 were measured in 31 drug-free OCD patients and matched healthy controls using ELISA.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to exclusion of patients with certain medical conditions and those on medication.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and cytokine levels were measured only once.
Participant Demographics
31 OCD patients (17 females, 14 males, mean age 33.4 years) and 31 healthy controls (15 females, 16 males, mean age 32.7 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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