ROLE OF CYTOKINES CHANGES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS

Introduction: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) remains a global health threat, demanding attention due to its wide geographic distribution. Immunity to MTB relies on Th1-cell activity, particularly cytokines such as Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) play crucial roles in protective immunity against MTB. This study delves into the impact of cytokine changes on immune responses and disease progression in the development of pulmonary tuberculosis (pTB). Methodology: This three-year study involved 300 participants, stratified into 100 healthy controls and 200 with pTB. Blood samples were collected, and serum cytokine levels (TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β) were analyzed using ELISA kits. Results: In the pTB group, significant increases (P<0.001) in TNF-α, IFN-γ, and TGF-β indicated infection and inflammation. Males with pTB exhibited higher cytokine levels than controls, a pattern mirrored in females (P<0.001). Among males aged 20-40 with pTB, all parameters increased significantly. Similarly, females aged 20-40 with pTB showed significant elevations. In the 41-60 age group, both genders with pTB had significantly increased levels (P<0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation among immunological parameters, emphasizing the impact of age and gender on cytokine changes in pTB. Conclusion: These cytokines are valuable markers for assessing disease activity and inflammation in pulmonary tuberculosis (pTB).