The Clinical Significance of Serum Interleukin-36 Levels in Patients with Gout

Background: Gout is a chronic inflammatory diseases caused by monosodium urate crystal deposition. However, the role of interleukin (IL)-36 in gout has not dbeen elucidated. Methods: We enrolled 75 subjects, including 20 healthy controls (HC), 30 patients with acute gout attack and 25 patients in remission. Baseline data were obtained through clinical interrogation and laboratory data were obtained through tests of blood samples. Serum levels of IL-36 alpha were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate the correlation of IL-36 alpha with other parameters. The diagnostic value of IL-36 alpha was demonstrated using a receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: The serum IL-36 alpha level of gout patients in acute attack and remission stage was significantly higher than that of HC. Serum IL-36 alpha was positively correlated with alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST). Serum amyloid A (SAA) levels positively correlated with C-reactive protein levels and erythrocyte sedimentation rates. Glutamyl transpeptidase levels positively correlated with AST and ALT levels. Conclusion: In conclusion, serum IL-36 alpha levels were elevated in patients with gout and correlated with the clinical markers of inflammation. Our findings suggest that IL-36 alpha may be a novel inflammatory indicator for gout.