Assessment of the Effects of Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors on the Immune Status Following Surgery in Adult Male Rats

Background and Objectives: Surgery via different mechanisms causes immunosuppression in the post-operative period. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of preoperative administration of cyclooxygenase inhibitors on blood levels of Interleukin-2 (IL-2), Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes. Methods: Seventy-five male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n=15 for each group). Group 1 was gavaged with normal saline for 3 consecutive days without surgery. Group 2 was gavaged with normal saline for 3 consecutive days. Groups 3 to 5 were gavaged with indomethacin (4 mg/kg) and celecoxib (7.5 and 15 mg/kg), respectively, for 3 consecutive days. In Groups 2 to 5, one hour after drugs administration on the third day, laparotomy was used as a surgery pattern. Blood samples were collected 24 hours after surgery and levels IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, WBCs and lymphocytes were determined. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA test. Results: Based on the results, a decrease in blood levels of IL-2, IFN-γ and lymphocytes along with an increase in TNF-α and WBCs were observed 24 hours after surgery compared to control rats (P<0.05). Indomethacin (4 mg/kg) and celecoxib (15 mg/kg) improved the decreased level of IL-2 (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in IFN-γ and lymphocytes between surgery group and the groups treated with indomethacin or celecoxib (P>0.05). Also, only celecoxib (15 mg/kg) could decrease the elevated levels TNF-α and WBCs (P<0.05). Conclusion: Perioperative use of cyclooxygenase inhibitors can improve immune system function.