Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 20, 2025

06:03
Author Spotlight: Advancing Immune Monitoring in Critical Care Patients Using Whole Blood Assays
Published on: September 20, 2024
1.6K
Correlation between immune response and self-reported depression during convalescence from COVID-19
Bo Yuan1, Weixin Li2, Hanqing Liu3
1Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Samii Medical Center, Shenzhen 518118, China.
Brain, Behavior, and Immunity
|May 29, 2020
Summary
Depression in COVID-19 survivors may be linked to an increased immune response, with higher white blood cell and neutrophil counts observed. Further research is needed to understand this connection and guide patient care.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Psychiatry
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Self-reported depression is noted in COVID-19 patients post-discharge.
- The underlying causes of depression during the COVID-19 convalescent period are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mental health status of convalescent COVID-19 patients.
- To explore potential links between self-reported depression and clinical characteristics, including immune markers.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 96 convalescent COVID-19 patients surveyed via an online questionnaire.
- Evaluation of clinical characteristics, including routine blood and biochemical data.
Main Results:
- Patients reporting depression showed elevated immune responses.
- Increased white blood cell counts, neutrophil counts, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were associated with self-reported depression.
Conclusions:
- Self-reported depression appears early in COVID-19 convalescence.
- Apparent changes in immune function warrant emphasis in patient follow-up.
- Psychological interventions are recommended for convalescent COVID-19 patients.
Related Concept Videos
Long-term Depression
32.8K
Long-term depression, or LTD, is one of the ways by which synaptic plasticity—changes in the strength of chemical synapses—can occur in the brain. LTD is the process of synaptic weakening that occurs over time between pre and postsynaptic neuronal connections. The synaptic weakening of LTD works in opposition to synaptic strengthening by long-term potentiation (LTP) and together are the main mechanisms that underlie learning and memory.
32.8K
Long-term Depression
2.9K
Long-term depression, or LTD, is one of the ways by which synaptic plasticity—changes in the strength of chemical synapses—can occur in the brain. LTD is the process of synaptic weakening that occurs over time between pre and postsynaptic neuronal connections. The synaptic weakening of LTD works in opposition to synaptic strengthening by long-term potentiation (LTP) and together are the main mechanisms that underlie learning and memory.
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over...
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over...
2.9K
Depression: Overview
662
Depression is a prevalent mental illness marked by persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It can take several forms, including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar I and II disorders. Symptoms range from emotional changes like chronic worry to physical changes like sleep disturbances and suicidal thoughts. From a neurobiological perspective, depression is believed to be triggered by abnormalities in the brain's prefrontal cortex,...
662
Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia
446
Depressive disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by pervasive feelings of sadness, diminished pleasure in life, and a significant impact on daily functioning. These conditions are most prevalent in individuals during their 30s and affect women at twice the rate of men. Contrary to popular belief, younger individuals are generally more susceptible to these disorders than older adults. Two key types of depressive disorders include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and...
446
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
353
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
353
Stress and Mental Health
422
Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
422

