[Psychoimmunology]

Abstract

Psychoneuroimmunology, an interdisciplinary field of research, is concerned with the interactions between the central nervous system, the endocrine system and the immune system. In this survey the importance of psychosocial factors is illustrated by means of a number of studies reviewed from the literature: 1. Psychosocial factors related to illness (except aids): In animal experiments it could be shown that the effects of aversive stimulation on tumor growth were dependent on the type and manner of application of the stressors. The influence of personality factors and psychological states on the course and possibly also on the susceptibility to illness was frequently confirmed with regard to upper respiratory infections, coronary artery disease, rheumatoid arthritis and cancer. 2. Psychosocial factors related to changes in immunity: Changes in immunity could be demonstrated relating to bereavement of close relatives as well as in mental illness. In spite of immunologic abnormalities found in the various diseases the importance of the aforementioned immunosuppression on possible subsequent onset of illness is not yet clarified. The fact that we can experimentally strengthen or weaken the immune system by means of psychological methods offers a further possibility to influence the course and prognosis of various diseases by means of psychologically induced changes in immunity.