Cytokine mediated changes of pain sensitivity in predisposition to substance dependence.

The purpose of study was evaluation of extra and intracellular cytokine production in blood cultures and cytokine-pain relationship at different stages od addiction.

Methods: Classic and multiplex enzyme immunoassay, flow, cytometry, algometry, visual analogue scale were used in 34 abusers, 12 users and 20 control subjects.

Results: Cytokine profile correlated with clinical parameters and pain sensitivity in abusers (mostly IL-6 and IL-1β). IL-10 production is increased in episodic and systematic users. Activation of intracellular IL-6 synthesis was found in users. Both parameters are expected to affect the emotional evaluation of pain.

Conclusion: To assess the predisposition to substance dependence most informative are balance of extra and intracellular production of IL-6 and IL-10 and algometry.