Inflammation Increases Creatinine Levels

Inflammation, including that associated with low-grade fever, can indeed lead to muscle protein breakdown and subsequently influence creatinine levels.

Here’s how this complex process works:

The Link Between Inflammation, Muscle Wasting, and Creatinine

1. Systemic Inflammation: When your body experiences inflammation (whether from an infection, chronic disease, injury, or even a low-grade fever), it activates a systemic inflammatory response.

2. Pro-inflammatory Cytokines: Key players in this response are pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as:
Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α)
Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) These cytokines are signaling molecules that orchestrate the immune response.

3. Muscle Protein Catabolism: These pro-inflammatory cytokines have a direct and significant impact on skeletal muscle:

• Increased Protein Degradation: They activate various pathways within muscle cells that promote the breakdown of muscle proteins (catabolism). This includes the ubiquitin-proteasome system, a major pathway for protein degradation in muscle.
• Decreased Protein Synthesis: They can also inhibit muscle protein synthesis, further contributing to a net loss of muscle mass.

4. Muscle Wasting (Cachexia/Sarcopenia): Chronic or severe inflammation can lead to muscle wasting, also known as cachexia (severe wasting associated with chronic illness) or sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss, often exacerbated by inflammation). Even low-grade, persistent inflammation can contribute to this over time.