Immunoregulatory role of stress mediators in rheumatoid arthritis

Eighteen patients suffering from chronic rheumatoid arthritis were selected for the present study. Plasma levels of stress hormones like catecholamines and cortisol were found to be elevated. At the same time reduction in percentage of E-rosette forming lymphocytes and an elevation in levels of major serum immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) were observed. Certain other alterations in serum protein fractions were also noted. Probable role of these factors in the pathogenesis of this disease is discussed and attempts have been made to inter relate these findings.