The role of IL-26 and IL-38 levels on menopause and vasomotor symptoms: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives: Investigations into interleukins as predictors of vasomotor symptoms in the postmenopausal period have yielded mixed results. There is a growing interest in defining the complete cytokine profile during menopause. This research aims to provide insights into the potential roles of IL-26 and IL-38 in relation to menopausal symptoms and the transition to postmenopausal status. Material and methods: A total of 168 patients (56 in premenopausal women, 56 in postmenopausal women without vasomotor symptoms, and 56 in postmenopausal women with vasomotor symptoms) aged between 45 and 55 years were included. Serum levels of IL-26 and IL-38 were measured to assess differences in interleukin levels among the patient groups. Results:The analysis revealed no significant differences in IL-26 and IL-38 levels between premenopausal and menopausal patients (p = 0.09 and p = 0.66, respectively). However, the median menopausal duration among individuals experiencing vasomotor symptoms was 24 months shorter compared to those without symptoms (p = 0.022). Although IL-26 levels did not vary significantly between groups, the group with vasomotor symptoms exhibited higher IL-38 levels compared to those without symptoms (p = 0.76 and p = 0.029, respectively). Furthermore, after adjusting for other variables, the odds of vasomotor symptom prevalence increased by 1% with every 1 ng/L increase in IL-38 levels and decreased by 1% with every additional month of menopausal time. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study shows that higher IL-38 levels were associated with the presence of vasomotor symptoms. These results suggest a potential involvement of IL-38 in the pathophysiology of menopausal symptoms.