Study on the Predictive Value of Inflammatory Factors and Biomarkers in Synovial Fluid for Disease Progression in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the expression levels of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and biomarkers (MMPs, COMP) in the synovial fluid of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) at different Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) grades and to analyze their predictive effect on disease progression.

Methods: This was a retrospective single-center study involving 154 KOA patients, divided into four K-L grades: grade 1 (37 cases), grade 2 (39 cases), grade 3 (42 cases), and grade 4 (36 cases). Inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and biomarkers (MMPs, COMP) were measured in synovial fluid. Visual analog scale (VAS) and WOMAC scores were also assessed. One-way ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to compare differences between groups, while correlation and multiple regression analyses evaluated the impact of these indicators on disease progression.

Results: IL-6 levels significantly increased with higher K-L grade. COMP levels also varied significantly across grades. Correlation analysis revealed that IL-6 (r=0.7021, P<0.001) and COMP (r=0.8579, P<0.001) were strongly correlated with K-L grade. Multiple regression analysis identified IL-6 and COMP as independent predictors of disease progression.

Conclusion: IL-6 and COMP in synovial fluid are significantly associated with KOA disease grading and progression. These biomarkers can aid in disease monitoring and early intervention, providing a basis for personalized treatment.