Introduction: Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is associated with higher levels of serum beta-hCG levels and hyperthyroidism. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, is reported to enhance secretion of beta-hCG from trophoblastic cell line.
Methods: We measured serum levels of IL-6, thyroid hormones and beta-hCG of hyperemetic patients and gestational age-matched controls to search for a difference between the two groups.
Results: There was a significant difference in beta-hCG ( p=0.028), though IL-6 levels were higher in the hyperemetic group, it did not reach a significant level. Interleukin-6 positively correlated with beta-hCG ( r=0.38 and p=0.13).