Regarding the STEPPS (Stepping up Treatment for Endometriosis and PELVIC Pain Study) concept, which biomarker in peritoneal fluid is MOST consistently elevated in women with active endometriosis and directly promotes lesion survival and proliferation?
- A Interleukin-6 ✓
- B Interleukin-10
- C Interferon-gamma
- D Interleukin-4
Correct answer: A. Interleukin-6
Explanation
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is the most consistently elevated cytokine in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis. It promotes endometriotic cell proliferation, invasion, and survival; inhibits NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity against endometrial cells; and induces VEGF production promoting neovascularization of implants. IL-6 has also been studied as a potential serum biomarker for non-invasive diagnosis. IL-10 is anti-inflammatory; IFN-gamma promotes cell-mediated immunity; IL-4 is a Th2 cytokine — all less specifically elevated in endometriosis.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.