TUMOR-NECROTIZING FACTOR AND ITS ROLE IN PATHOGENESIS OF HEART AND GALLBLADDER DISORDERS

Abstract

Tumour-necrotizing factor (TNF) is a key proinflammatory cytokine, which may increase in
patients with heart failure, Alzheimer’s disease, psoriasis, or inflammatory bowel diseases. TNF decreases the
absorptive function of the gallbladder (GB) wall and takes part in GB changes from hyperplasia of mucous
membrane to carcinoma. The aim of this study was to estimate the TNF concentration in serum and its
correlation with GB status and cardiovascular disorders.
Materials and methods. We have estimated TNF level in 20 patients, who were divided into group 1 (intact
GB) and group 2 (GB changes). The results were analysed with the help of Statistica 5.0 software (USA).
Results and discussion. In the case of GB changes the serum TNF concentration of the included patients
was 81.7% higher than in case of intact GB (p<0.05), which confirms the activation of TNF production by
biliary system cells. We also uncovered a strong correlation (r=0.96, p<0.05) of serum TNF level with GB wall
thickness in the group 2. ECGs of patients with GB disorders and elevated TNF were characterized by the signs
of increase of left atrium electric activity and pre-excitation.
Conclusions. 1) Blood concentration of TNF depends on GB condition. 2) GB changes and elevated levels of
serum TNF are accompanied by the significant elongation of electrical systole of ventricles and the domination
of electrical activity of left heart chambers.