Evaluating sex hormones and cytokine profile in Egyptian females with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Background: Sexual dimorphism shown in multiple sclerosis suggests an interaction between immune system and sex hormones. The objective of this study is to determine the hormonal profile and serum cytokine levels in Egyptian female patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) compared with healthy controls and their associations with disease disability.

Methods: This study was conducted on 40 female patients with RRMS and 20 age-matched controls subjected to measurements of the hormonal profile (estrogen, testosterone) and cytokine levels (interleukin 10 and 4 and tumor necrosis factor alpha) and disability assessment using Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).

Epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs: risk factors for atherosclerosis.

Introduction: Epilepsy is a chronic disease that affects metabolism either alone or through the antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment. A risk of atherosclerosis has been found in epileptic patients.

Aim: Prove the potential role of epilepsy and/or its treatment as atherosclerotic risk factors.