The presence of cytokines and growth factors in hydrosalpingeal fluid

Abstract

Purpose:To examine the presence of cytokines and growth factors in hydrosalpingeal fluid. Methods: Eighteen hydrosalpingeal fluids were compared with 15 follicular fluids and serum samples regarding the presence of interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-12, IL-1α, epidermal growth factor (EGF), granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interferon-γ (IFNγ), and transforming growth factor-β 2 (TGFβ 2). Results: IL-8 and EGF were detected in all the hydrosalpinx samples. IL-8, IL-12, IL-1α, TNFα, TGFβ 2, GM-CSF, and LIF were detected to a significantly larger extent in hydrosalpingeal than follicular fluids (p < 0.01). The same cytokines, with the exception of IL-8, TGFβ 2, and LIF, were also more frequently present in comparison with serum. Conclusion: The abundant presence of cytokines in hydrosalpingeal fluid suggests an increased expression from the tubal epithelium. Whether high concentrations have a negative influence on embryo development and implantation needs further investigation.