The HPA-axis and immune function in burnout

Paula M.C. Mommersteeg, Cobi J. Heijnen, Annemieke Kavelaars, Lorenz J.P. van Doornen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

15 Scopus citations

Abstract

Burnout results from chronic work stress. Its complaints may be related to HPA-axis disturbances or changes in immune function. In our studies the salivary cortisol awakening response, day-curve, and the suppressed level after dexamethasone intake were not different in a burned-out group compared to a control group. Nor was there a change in cortisol after a treatment period. Higher levels of DHEAS and the monocyte released anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 were observed, however T-cell stimulated and dexamethasone inhibited cytokine release were not affected. The increased IL-10 level may be related to an increased sensitivity for infections.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationStress Hormones and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Basic Studies and Clinical Perspectives
EditorsRonlad Kloet, Melly Oitzl, Eric Vermetten
Pages281-285
Number of pages5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007

Publication series

NameProgress in Brain Research
Volume167
ISSN (Print)0079-6123

Keywords

  • DHEAS
  • burnout
  • chronic stress
  • cortisol
  • cytokines
  • dexamethasone suppression test
  • follow-up

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The HPA-axis and immune function in burnout'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this