HPA axis exhaustion and regulatory T cell accumulation in patients with a functional somatic syndrome: Recent view on the problem of Gulf War veterans

摘要: The authors proceeded from the assumption that physical and mental symptoms of functional somatic syndromes (including those observed in Gulf War veterans) are based on both underactivity hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis excessive accumulation regulatory T cells (Tregs). Permanent psychogenic stress coupled with high antigen loading leads to gradual depletion HPA axis, which is manifested by reduction stress-induced cortisol response. Under hormone deficiency, Tregs begin play a principal role anti-inflammatory mechanisms each new pro-inflammatory stimulus increases their number. Superfluous active results malfunction Th1 brain appearance neurodegeneration foci, seems be an anatomic substance for various cognitive psychological symptoms. New approaches treatment such conditions also discussed.