Comparison of leptin serum levels in patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) and Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)

Abstract

Background: Given the increased levels of the hormone leptin in some autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS) as a chronic progressive disease, the present study was conducted to determine and compare the mean serum level of leptin in patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) and Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS). Methods: In this cross-sectional study conducted in 2021 at Kashani Hospital in Isfahan, 16 patients with RRMS and 16 patients with SPMS were selected according to the 2015 McDonald criteria. Leptin serum levels were evaluated in the two groups using a leptin kit from the LDN company and the ELISA method, and compared using the Chi-square and Mann-Whitney statistical tests. Findings: The median leptin serum level in the RRMS and SPMS groups was 29.5 (15.5-34.75), and 42 (35.25-46.75) respectively, and the difference between the scores of the two groups was significant (P = 0.003). Other findings showed no significant correlation between leptin serum levels and age, BMI, or EDSS. Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, serum leptin levels in patients with multiple sclerosis could potentially be introduced as a biomarker and used for better diagnosis and follow-up of patients. © 2025, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.