Abstract
Background. Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a cytokine with both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on the inflammatory system such as macrophage inhibition and T-cell activation. It is known to regulate several monocyte functions, including inhibition of the synthesis of cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α as well as potentiating IL-8.
Method. In an attempt to clarify the association between IL-4 and endometriosis, we measured the concentration of IL-4 in the peritoneal fluid of 52 women; 24 with endometriosis and 28 with no endometriosis, controlling for the phase of the cycle and the stage of disease.
Results. There was no difference in the concentrations of IL-4 between women with (n = 28) and without endometriosis (n = 24). No difference was found between the IL-4 concentrations in women with different stages of endometriosis. Levels of IL-4 did not show a difference according to the phase of the cycle in either group.
Conclusion. Our results indicate no association between peritoneal fluid levels of IL-4 and endometriosis and hence suggest that IL-4 is not involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
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*Address for correspondence: M. Rafet Gazvani, M.R.C.O.G. University of Aberdeen Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Aberdeen Maternity Hospital Aberdeen AB25 2ZD UK