Immunosuppressive effect of surgery evaluated by the multitest cell-mediated immunity system

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Surgery can induce significant physiological stress, potentially impacting immune function.
• Cell-mediated immunity is crucial for defense against pathogens and is sensitive to surgical manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the immunosuppressive effects of elective surgery on cell-mediated immunity.
• To evaluate the utility of the Multitest cell-mediated immunity system for monitoring immune status post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 100 patients undergoing elective laparotomy were assessed for delayed skin hypersensitivity.
• The Multitest cell-mediated immunity system, utilizing seven standardized recall antigens, was employed for intradermal testing.
• Patients were tested preoperatively and on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7, with a control group of 20 healthy volunteers.

Main Results:

• All surgical patients exhibited immunosuppression, with the most significant effect observed on postoperative day 3.
• Immune function began to recover between 7 and 10 days after surgery.
• Patients with neoplastic disease experienced more severe and prolonged immunosuppression compared to those without.

Conclusions:

• Elective surgery induces a temporary but measurable immunosuppressive state.
• The Multitest system provides a reliable and quantifiable method for assessing cell-mediated immunity in surgical patients.
• Monitoring immune status may be valuable, particularly in patients with underlying conditions like cancer.