Endocrine influences on lymphatic organs, immune responses, inflammation and autoimmunity
Ahlqvist, J.
Acta Endocrinologica. Supplementum 206: 3
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-9750 PMID: 1087821 Document Number: 99400
Certain hormones other than glucocorticoids may in mammals influence the lymphatic tissue morphology and the basic mode of immunological response. Links between endocrine alterations and clinical (human) autoimmunity diseases are examined. A few facts about lymphatic organ morphology are summarized. Comment is made on some mechanisms which possibly should be considered in inflammation and autoimmunity. The major endocrine glands and the hypothalamus are discussed. The influence of the hormone(s) on the thymus and other lymphatic organs and on immune responses is discussed. Alterations in the plasma and effects on coagulation are examined. A short survey is made of studies on the endocrine effects on inflammatory diseases. The influence of hormones on inflammation and immunity is commented on. One chapter deals with aspects of the immunological paradox of pregnancy, which may be important with regard to the theme of this review.