Levels of interleukins 2, 6, 8, and 10 in patients with irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was previously considered as a psychosomatic disorder. But recent studies indicate that inflammation plays a significant role. The present study was undertaken to evaluate role of pro-inflammatory (IL 2, IL 6 and IL 8) and anti-inflammatory (IL 10) cytokines in clinically diagnosed patients of IBS. 51 patients and 29 controls were included in this study. On the basis of history of gastrointestinal infection, patients were divided into Post Infectious (PIIBS) and Non Post Infectious (NPIIBS) groups. All subsequently underwent colonoscopy and a rectosigmoid biopsy as well as measurement of levels of IL 2, 6, 8 and 10. The levels of IL 2 and IL 8 were significantly raised in IBS patients compared to controls with the mean level of IL 2,6 and 8 higher in PIIBS group than NPIIBS group but statistically significant for IL 8 only. The mean level IL-10 was reduced in patients compared to controls but statistically insignificant. Present study shows that Interleukin levels are altered in patients suffering from IBS and may have a key role in its pathogenesis.