Serum Levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and Vitamin D: Their Correlation with Acute Otitis Media in Short-Stature Pediatric Patients.

INTRODUCTION

Short stature in children is a global health issue often linked to micronutrient deficiencies like vitamin D, potentially impairing immune function. Acute Otitis Media (AOM) is a common complication of upper respiratory infections in children, with inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α playing a crucial role in its pathogenesis. This study aims to explore the correlation between serum levels of these biomarkers and AOM occurrence in short-stature pediatric patients.

PURPOSE: To assess the relationship between serum levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and vitamin D and their association with AOM in children with short stature.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted with 180 children aged 24-59 months, divided into four groups: short stature with AOM, short stature without AOM, normal stature with AOM, and normal stature without AOM. Serum levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and vitamin D were measured using the ELISA method. The data were analyzed using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate statistical methods.

RESULTS

Children with short stature and AOM had the highest median levels of IL-6 (12.15 pg/mL) and TNF-α (162.52 pg/mL), while IL-10 levels were lowest in this group (0.56 pg/mL), indicating a robust inflammatory response associated with AOM. Multivariate analysis revealed that male sex, vitamin D levels ≤18.9 ng/mL, IL-6 levels >9.42 pg/mL, and IL-10 levels ≤0.76 pg/mL were significant risk factors for developing AOM, with respective odds ratios indicating markedly elevated risks.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the significant role of inflammatory markers and vitamin D deficiency in the development of AOM in short-stature pediatric patients. Regular monitoring and targeted interventions may help prevent AOM in this vulnerable population, warranting future research on the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation and other therapeutic strategies.