Assessment of Immunological Parameters of Early Osteoporosis in Patients With Celiac Disease in Wasit Governorate

Abstract

The study analyses the immunological markers, especially Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18), in elderly Iraqi patients with early osteoporosis linked to coeliac disease (CD). Coeliac disease, an autoimmune condition induced by gluten, may adversely affect bone density via inflammatory and hormonal pathways. Seventy-five blood samples were collected: twenty-five from patients with osteoporosis and coeliac disease, and fifty from age- and sex-matched controls. The samples were categorised into two age groups (55–65 and 65–75 years) and assessed using ELISA methods for IL-6 and IL-18 concentrations. The research identified a statistically significant elevation (p < 0.001) in IL-6 and IL-18 concentrations in the patient cohort relative to the control group. Moreover, a notable gender-based disparity in IL-18 levels was observed, especially among female patients, indicating a hormonal impact on cytokine expression. These results highlight the potential of IL-6 and IL-18 as early immunological indicators for osteoporosis in people with coeliac disease. The findings support the use of immune profiling into clinical evaluations to enhance bone health management in coeliac patients. Additional longterm studies are required to elucidate causative pathways and assess the advantages of immunomodulatory treatments.