Abstract

In this study, the role of interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6 and IL-8, which have important roles in inflammation and immune response, was assessed in diagnosis of patients with infertility.

For this purpose, a total of 25 patients evaluated for infertility without additional infertility pathology were included into the study. Of the patients, only leukocyte was determined in seminal plasma in twelve patients and no other infertility pathology was determined. Additionally, 10 fertile volunteer male was included into the study as control group. Seminal plasma IL-1beta, IL-6 and IL-8 levels were measured in all patients using chemiluminescence method and the results of the assays were compared in each group.

There was no difference between the three groups when they were compared in respect to IL-1beta levels, but the level of IL-6 and IL-8 were found to be significantly increased in patients having infertility and infection, concomitantly (P<0.05). Additionally, only the level of IL-6 in infertility group was determined higher than the control group.

IL-6 and especially IL-8 were found to be increased in seminal plasma of patients with infection and inflammation. However, to determine the definitive effects of cytokines in infertility, there’s need for further researches with wide series of patients using different cytokines.