Background Depersonalisation (DP) and derealisation (DR) are dissociative symptoms that impair perception of one’s self and environment. There is limited understanding of the biological mechanisms underpinning persistent DPDR, but emerging evidence suggests the involvement of inflammatory processes. This study investigates the longitudinal association between inflammatory markers (interleukin-6 [IL-6] and C-reactive protein [CRP]) and DPDR symptoms in a population-based cohort.

Methods We used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. IL-6 was measured at age 9 years; CRP at ages 9, 15, and 24 years. DPDR were assessed at ages 12, 17, and 24 years. Generalised linear mixed models analysed relationships, adjusting for sex, ethnicity, and social position.

Results Higher IL-6 at age 9 years significantly predicted increased odds of DP at age 24 (aOR = 1.52, p = 0.004) in comparison to DP at age 12. Higher CRP levels at age 9 years were associated with increased odds of DR at age 12 (aOR = 1.43, p = 0.010). However, a significant negative association was observed between CRP and DR at age 24 (aOR = 0.45, p < 0.001) in comparison to DR at age 12. IL-6 and CRP were not associated with DR and DP, respectively, at any age.

Conclusions Findings suggest distinct inflammatory profiles for DP and DR. Childhood IL-6 elevation predicts later DP, while CRP shows an age-dependent association with DR. This may reflect allostatic load or immune adaptation. Future studies should explore neuroinflammatory pathways, adversity, and intervention potential using dimensional measures of DPDR.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

This study was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

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