Relationship between Lymphocytes, IL2 and the Hormones E2, LH, PRG and FSH in Menopausal and Postmenopausal Women

Problem In this baseline study, our aim is to show the relationship of parameters and gonad hormones in menopausal and postmenopausal women. Method Blood samples were taken from menopausal and postmenopausal women (12-14 months and >= 10 years, respectfully, since their last menstruation). Adolescents aged 13.7 +/- 0.7 were used as controls. Hormones were measured by ELISA and percentages of CD45, CD4, CD8, CD3, CD19, IL-2, CD25 and HLA-DR were measured by flow cytometry. Results Both groups showed an increase in the percentage of CD3, CD4 and CD8. Levels of CD19 were significantly lower in the postmenopausal group. However, changes in immunologic parameters during menopause were less marked than the hormonal changes observed in these groups. Most of the correlations LH x CD3 (-ve), LH x IL2R (-ve) and E2 x CD19 (+ve) suggesting how menopausal women with particularly high LH or low E2 levels may be affected. Only CD3 and HLA-DR correlated with the hormonal changes in the postmenopausal group. IL-2 levels were high in the menopausal group and low in the postmenopausal group; however, no correlation was observed. Discussion Menopause is characterized by increased levels of IL-2, which has critical immune-modulatory effects. These changes may be related to the overall hormonal change process observed during menopause.