Title of article
The Effect of Exam Stress on Serum IL-6, Cortisol, CRP and IgE Levels
Author/Authors
Shamsdin, SA Gastroenterohepatology Research Center - Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz , Anvar, M Department of Psychiatry - Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa , Mehrabani, D Stem Cell and Transgenic Technology Research Center - Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz
Pages
5
From page
484
To page
488
Abstract
Background: Stress has determining effects on the immune response. This study was undertaken to determine
the effect of exam stress on serum IL-6, cortisol, CRP and IgE levels of medical students.
Methods: Thirty five university medical students in Southern Iran were enrolled. Two blood samples were provided
from each participant one month (first stage) and one hour (second stage) before the exam at 1.00 PM.
The students completed the SpielBerger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire. IL-6, cortisol, CRP
and IgE changes were determined in these students.
Results: The mean age of the students was 21 years. The exam stress resulted in a significant decrease in the
IgE level and a significant increase in the cortisol level.
Conclusion: The exam stress can result in a decrease in the IgE level and a significant increase in the cortisol
level. So, these changes may indicate the alterations of immunological status and presence of stress in an immunosuppressed
individual, affecting his/her health.
Keywords
Stress , Immune system , IL-6 , IgE , CRP , Cortisol
Journal title
Astroparticle Physics
Serial Year
2010
Record number
2441564
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