Objective: To study interleukin-6(IL-6) and its receptors in human breast cancer.
Methods: Using ELISA method and ABC immunohistochemistry, IL-6 and its receptors were examined in 45 cases of breast cancer, 10 cases of benign breast diseases and 17 cases of healthy women.
Results: High levels of serum IL-6 and its soluble receptors were frequently observed in breast cancer patients. The levels correlated with the stage and axillary lymph node involvement. The positive staining of IL-6, IL-6R alpha, gp130 were 68.9% in neoplasm tissue.
Conclusion: IL-6 and its soluble receptors may be important paramenters reflecting the biological behaviour and prognosis of breast cancer.