Association between inflammatory cytokines and disease severity in restless legs syndrome.

Background: This study aims to evaluate serum cytokine levels in individuals with primary Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and analyze their correlation with RLS symptom severity, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted involving 87 primary RLS patients and 100 healthy individuals undergoing health check-ups. Serum cytokine levels were assessed, and RLS severity was evaluated using the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) rating scale. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD24), and 14-item Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA14) were utilized to assess symptom severity, sleep disturbances, and emotional states in RLS patients.

Results: Serum cytokine levels, including IL-6 and TNF-α, were significantly higher in RLS patients compared to controls (P < 0.05). Adjustment for disease duration, sex, age, BMI, SBP, and DBP revealed an independent association between serum IL-6 and RLS (OR = 1.46; 95% CI = 1.02-1.93; P = 0.003). Linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between IL-6 levels and IRLS scores (β = 0.123, P = 0.008).

Conclusion: Elevated circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines in RLS patients suggest a potential role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of primary RLS. Additionally, serum cytokine levels correlate closely with disease severity.