Compromised T-cell immunity in patients with spinal cord injury and its relationship with injury characteristics

Turk J Phys Med Rehab, 2023 · DOI: 10.5606/tftrd.2023.11658 · Published: December 23, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Immunology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the impact of spinal cord injury (SCI) on the immune system, specifically focusing on T-cell activity in patients with chronic SCI. The researchers aimed to determine how the level and completeness of the spinal cord injury, along with autonomic dysfunction, affect the body's T-cell immune response. The study found that T-cell activity is impaired in chronic SCI patients with higher levels of injury, and the completeness of the injury and autonomic dysfunction gain prominence as factors that compromise T-cell immunity.

Study Duration

9 Months

Participants

49 patients with chronic traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Level III, Cross-sectional Study

Key Findings

1
Patients with incomplete SCIs had a higher skin response to candida compared to those with complete SCIs.
2
Incomplete SCI patients had higher percentages of lymphocytes and CD3+CD25+ and CD3+CD69+ T cells compared to complete SCI patients.
3
When patients with complete injuries were compared, the CD45+ cell percentage was found to be significantly higher in patients with injury at T6 or above.

Research Summary

This study aimed to investigate T-cell activity in patients with chronic SCI, determining the effects of autonomic dysfunction and the completeness of injury at different levels on cellular immune response. The study found that T-cell functions were impaired in SCI patients with higher levels of injury in the chronic period. Completeness of injury and autonomic dysfunction are important factors affecting immunosuppression in SCI patients.

Practical Implications

Understanding Immunosuppression

The study highlights the importance of considering the level and completeness of SCI when assessing immune function.

Targeted Interventions

Findings suggest potential targets for interventions aimed at improving immune function in SCI patients.

Personalized Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation programs may need to be tailored based on the patient's level and completeness of injury to address potential immune deficiencies.