Evaluating the Role of Interleukin IL-38 Level in Tonsillitis Patients and Relationship with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Diyala Province

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease linked to Streptococcus pyogenes infection, often initiated by tonsillitis or rheumatic fever. This study investigates the relationship between IL-38 levels and the presence of tonsillitis and RA. Conducted from October 2023 to May 2024 in Diyala Governorate, Iraq, 88 participants were categorized into four groups: RA patients, tonsillitis patients, patients with both conditions, and healthy controls. ELISA tests revealed significantly decreased IL-38 levels in RA (63.63 ± 14.45 Pg/ML), tonsillitis (46.97 ± 12.76 Pg/ML), and dual-condition patients (15.18 ± 5.64 Pg/ML) compared to controls (17.16 ± 10.66 Pg/ML). The study highlights IL-38's dual role in disease pathogenesis, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for RA and tonsillitis.