This study aimed to evaluate serum cytokine concentrations in healthy individuals and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients.

A total of 59 laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients and 44 healthy controls were included. Multiplex analysis of interleukins 2, 4, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13 and 17 and interferon-gamma with respect to the presence of laryngeal carcinoma, tumour–node–metastasis T stage, nodal involvement and larynx subsite was performed.

Statistical analysis revealed no difference in serum cytokine levels between patients and healthy controls. The serum interleukin-12 concentration was significantly higher in patients with early (T1–2) than in those with late (T3–4) stage disease and without nodal involvement (p < 0.05). Serum interleukin-10 levels were significantly higher in T3–4 stage than in T1–2 stage patients (p < 0.05). Additionally, serum interleukin 10, 12 and 13 concentrations (p < 0.05) and interleukin-6 concentration (p < 0.01) were significantly higher in patients with T1–2 stage supraglottic vs glottic tumours.

Serum cytokines level cannot be used as laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma markers. Progression from T1–2 to T3–4 stage is followed by decreased serum interleukin-12 levels and increased interleukin-10 levels. Nodal involvement is associated with lower serum interleukin-12 levels. In patients with early stage tumours, serum interleukin 6, 10, 12 and 13 concentrations are significantly higher in those with supraglottic vs glottic tumours.