| Purpose. Osteoarthritis is associated with obesity, decreased functional capacity and dissatisfaction with function. Low serum IGF-I levels are associated with obesity, reduced function and possibly joint destruction. Cytokines have also been implicated in articular cartilage destruction. Thus the purpose of this study was to examine whether IGF-I and cytokine levels were altered in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.; Methods. Men and women aged 55-75 years (n = 138) participated in this study. All subjects completed evaluation of: body composition, physical function, perceived function and serum IGF-I levels. A sub-population (n = 38) underwent analysis of cytokines and IGF-I in synovial fluid. Differences were deemed significant at p {dollar}<{dollar} 0.05.; Conclusions. Women versus men with OA had higher adiposity, altered cytokines, and lower IGF-I and functional capacity. The gender differences suggest a different etiology of osteoarthritic disease. These findings suggest that in women other factors (hormones) may influence IGF-I levels and ultimately osteoarthritis development. |
