Immunological Detection of IL-6 and IL-12 for Prognostic Markers of Bacterial Tonsillitis Among Immunocompromised Patients in Wasit Province

Abstract

This study investigated the bacterial profile and immunological response in immunocompromised patients suffering from tonsillitis, including recurrent cases, diabetic patients, and pregnant women. Bacteriological analysis revealed that Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent isolate (38%), followed by Streptococcus pyogenes (20%). Immunologically, a significant downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed across all patient groups. IL-6 levels were significantly reduced in recurrent 14.58 ± 0.95 pg/ml., diabetic 14.77 ± 1.51 pg/ml., and pregnant patients (p < 0.0161) compared to healthy controls. Similarly, IL-12 levels showed a marked decline, particularly in recurrent respiratory patients 169.26 ± 8.06 pg/ml., and diabetic individuals 199.87 ± 23.4 pg/ml., indicating a compromised Th1-mediated immune response. These findings suggest that the suppression of IL-6 and IL-12 signaling pathways impairs pathogen clearance, leading to increased susceptibility and chronicity of tonsillar infections in these vulnerable populations.