Relationship between distress and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with colorectal cancer

Background: Some studies show that pro-inflammatory cytokines are involved in the pathophysiology of anxiety and depression in cancer patients.Objective: To evaluate the levels and relationship of psychological variables (distress and optimism) and physiological markers [pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8, C-reactive protein (CRP), and cortisol] in patients with colorectal cancer.Methods: Seventeen patients with colorectal cancer participated.Results: 35-41% of the patients' present distress and 29.40% anxiety and depression.In the physiological markers, most of the patients present elevated levels of IL CRP, compared to IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and cortisol.Only positive and significant relationships were found between IL-6 and distress measured by HADS (rs = 0.724) and by the thermometer (rs = 0.625), depression (rs = 0.877), and physical problems (rs = 0.747).Conclusion: It is suggested to continue with the research on the relationship between psychological variables and physiological markers to provide information that will allow comprehensive care for the cancer patient.