Serum adiponectin, C-reactive protein and TNF-α levels in obese Korean children

Aim: To determine whether there are differences of serum adiponectin, CRP and TNF-α levels between obese and non-obese children and to investigate the relationship between childhood obesity and inflammation. Methods: A total of 103 (73 obese, 30 non-obese) children were evaluated for height, weight, blood pressure and body mass index (BMI). We measured serum adiponectin, hs-CRP, and TNF-α levels and analyzed their correlation with BMI, serum glucose, lipid profile and insulin resistance. Results: Serum adiponectin levels were significantly decreased in the obese children compared to non-obese children, and had a negative correlation with BMI, fasting glucose and HOMA-IR. Serum hs-CRP and TNF-α levels were increased in obese children compared to non-obese children, and had a positive correlation with BMI. Conclusions: Serum adiponectin level was decreased and serum CRP and TNF-α levels were increased in obese children. Our findings suggest that childhood obesity is associated with inflammatory processes.