Circulating and synovial levels of IGF-I, cytokines, physical function and anthropometry differ in women awaiting total knee arthroplasty when compared to men.

Abstract

Determine if gender differences in osteoarthritis relate to cytokine and growth factor levels. Cross-sectional comparison of serum and synovial concentrations of cytokines (IL-1alphabeta, TNF-alpha, IL-6), growth factors (IGF-I, TGF-beta, IRAP), physical performance and perceived function in total knee arthroplasty candidates (TKAC) (n=17) and healthy controls (n=21) was done. Serum IGF-I values were reduced in female (TKAC 137.6+/-7.2; Controls 160.2+/-26.2) but not male TKAC (TKAC 182.6+/-18.4; Controls 184.0+/-18.4) (p<0.05).). Serum and synovial levels of cytokines and growth factors did not differ significantly by group or gender. Physical performance testing (SPW, TUG) revealed significant group and gender differences (p=0.001) with women demonstrating greater functional impairment. A systemic, not local component to OA pathophysiology may exist for female TKAC. Male TKAC were less impaired, and their IGF-I levels differ little from Control values.