Emotion and immunity

Journal/Book: J Psychosom Res. 1998; 45: The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford OX5 1GB, England. Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. 107-115.

Abstract: Earlier studies have suggested that depression is associated with decreased immune function, but a recent literature review has revealed that a majority of studies reached inconsistent or conflicting conclusions. On the other hand, studies on immune function in anxiety disorders are sparse, and their findings are also inconsistent. Despite a few contradictory results, a clinical level of anxiety seems to reduce immune function, whereas a subclinical level of anxiety seems to enhance immunity. The latter may be a transient phenomenon occurring prior to the downregulation of immune function, reflecting the body's defense to a stressor. Thus, research needs to be conducted to elucidate the relationship between those hormones related to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and a variety of immune measures at the subclinical level of anxiety. In addition, to confirm the interaction between emotion and immune function, the effectiveness of treatment with medication and psychotherapy on immunity should be investigated.

Note: Review Koh KB, Yonsei Univ, Coll Med, Dept Psychiat, Cpo Box 8044, Seoul, SOUTH KOREA

Keyword(s): immunity; depression; anxiety; subclinical anxiety; treatment; KILLER-CELL-ACTIVITY; MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER; DEXAMETHASONE SUPPRESSION TEST; LYMPHOCYTE FUNCTION; PSYCHOTIC DEPRESSION; STRESS; SYSTEM; IMMUNOCOMPETENCE; RESPONSES; SEVERITY

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