R W Kupka1, M H Hillegers1, W A Nolen1, N Breunis2, H A Drexhage2. 1. 1Altrecht Institute for Mental Health Care,Utrecht,The Netherlands. 2. 4Department of Immunology,Erasmus University Rotterdam,The Netherlands.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Significant changes in immune function have been found in mood disorders. Controlled studies in bipolar disorder concerning cell-mediated immunity and thyroid autoimmunity are reviewed, and presented together with preliminary findings from our own ongoing study. METHOD: Using Medline and other sources, 14 controlled studies as well as some other relevant studies were found. RESULTS: Bipolar disorder is associated with an acute phase response and activation of the cell-mediated immune system, and with an increased prevalence of antithyroid autoantibodies. CONCLUSION: Changes in immune function, in connection with neuroendocrine changes, may provide new hypotheses for the pathophysiology of mood disorders.
INTRODUCTION: Significant changes in immune function have been found in mood disorders. Controlled studies in bipolar disorder concerning cell-mediated immunity and thyroid autoimmunity are reviewed, and presented together with preliminary findings from our own ongoing study. METHOD: Using Medline and other sources, 14 controlled studies as well as some other relevant studies were found. RESULTS:Bipolar disorder is associated with an acute phase response and activation of the cell-mediated immune system, and with an increased prevalence of antithyroid autoantibodies. CONCLUSION: Changes in immune function, in connection with neuroendocrine changes, may provide new hypotheses for the pathophysiology of mood disorders.