Objective: To compare the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines by whole blood samples stimulated with lipopolysaccharide from normotensive and preeclamptic women.
Methods: The synthesis of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukyn-1β, interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 were assayed by immunosorbent assays in 56 and 50 preeclamptic and normotensive women, respectively.
Results: Preeclamptic women showed a higher synthesis (p < 0.05) of interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 versus normotensive group. Interleukin-10 synthesis from samples of normotensive women showed a higher production versus preeclamptic group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Preeclamptic women showed an imbalance in the production of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines in comparison with normotensive women.