Psychological modulation of the delayed type hypersensitivity skin test.
Considerable data have demonstrated that psychological states can influence the immune system in animals. Whether human immune function can be intentionally modulated by the central nervous system is unknown. This article presents data from two studies that sought to demonstrate intentional modulation of the immune system by psychological interventions. It also discusses the methodological complexities involved with this type of research in humans.
Smith
G R
GR
Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock.
Conger
C
C
O'Rourke
D F
DF
Steele
R W
RW
Charlton
R K
RK
Smith
S S
SS
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016525:Antigenic Modulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000276:immunology*; D007159:Immunologic Tests; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000276:immunology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011897:Random Allocation; D012107:Research Design; D012882:Skin Tests