Comparison of spleen characterization and plasma levels of interleukin 6 and 10 in obese and healthy individuals

Background and aims: Spleen is one of the organs that has great importance in Iranian traditional medicine due to its relationship with obesity. Therefore, in this study, we aim to investigate spleen characterization and plasma levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-10 in patients referred to medical centers affiliated with Golestan University of Medical Sciences during 2021-2022. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 24 subjects with obesity and 24 subjects with normal body mass index (BMI). The length, thickness, and width of the spleen were determined for each subject. Spleen volume was calculated for each subject using the standard prolate ellipsoid formula (length x thickness x width x 0.523). Fasting blood samples were taken from the subjects to check IL- 6 and 10 using the ELISA assay. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Our results showed that the two groups had a statistically significant difference in length, width, thickness, and volume of the spleen (P<0.001, P<0.017, P<0.002, and P<0.001, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in the elasticity of the spleen (P=0.58). Plasma levels of IL-6 were significantly higher in subjects with obesity compared to the control group (P<0.001). However, the two groups had no significant difference in IL-10 levels (P=0.92). Conclusion: The increase in spleen dimensions and high plasma levels of IL-6 may reflect the development of obesity.