Involvement of G-CSF, IL-6, and cortisol in transient neutrophilia after marathon races.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanisms of the transient increase in neutrophils after running standard marathon races by measurement of cytokines involved in the production and survival of neutrophils, and cortisol.

Methods: Fourteen male runners who participated in the Hokkaido Marathon, which is the sole marathon race held in summer in Japan, and finished the standard marathon were analyzed sequentially from the start until a maximum of 8 days after the finish.

Results: Neutrophilia was observed in all runners just after they reached the goal (mean neutrophils: 13 226/μL).