Hematologic Cytokine Storm: Immune Dysregulation in Advanced Ovarian Cancer
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67224/ioasdjmps.2026.v03i02.006Keywords:
cytokine storm, immune dysregulation, ovarian cancer, hematologic inflammation, tumor microenvironmentAbstract
Advanced ovarian cancer is frequently associated with profound immune dysregulation characterized by a hematologic cytokine storm, a hyperinflammatory state driven by excessive cytokine release. This dysregulated immune response contributes to tumor progression, systemic inflammation, and significant hematologic abnormalities including anemia, thrombocytosis, and leukocytosis. The cytokine storm reflects a complex interplay between tumor cells, immune cells, and the tumor microenvironment, resulting in the amplification of pro-inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). The pathophysiology of the cytokine storm involves a feed-forward loop of immune activation where elevated cytokine levels disrupt normal hematopoiesis, induce endothelial dysfunction, and promote coagulation abnormalities. Clinically, patients exhibit systemic inflammatory symptoms and laboratory evidence of hematologic dyscrasia, which negatively impact treatment response and overall prognosis. Understanding the mechanisms underlying cytokine-driven hematologic dysfunction is crucial for improving patient management in advanced ovarian cancer.
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