Psychological and immunological associations in men with AIDS pursuing a macrobiotic regimen as an alternative therapy: a pilot study.

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1990. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Psychological and immunological associations in men with AIDS pursuing a macrobiotic regimen as an alternative therapy: a pilot study.

Brain Behav Immun. 1989 Jun;3(2):175-82. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/90001620
Levy EM; Cottrell MC; Black PH; Department of Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine,; Massachusetts 02118.

Abstract: A group of men with AIDS who chose to follow a macrobiotic regimen as an alternative form of therapy was studied for the possible influence of psychological factors on their clinical progression. In this group, men with Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) had an estimated survival time of 60% at 3 years. Moreover, there was a tendency for lymphocyte number to increase during the first 3 years following diagnosis with KS. A subset of eight of these men with KS and one man with Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) agreed to fill out a battery of psychological questionnaires. The results suggest low levels of fatigue, negative affect, and confusion, but high levels of vigor in this subgroup. Additionally, there was significant positive associations of CD4 positive lymphocyte numbers with trait curiosity and hardiness scores and significant negative associations with anxiety and depression. Mitogen responsiveness followed a similar pattern, but only a positive association with curiosity reached significance. Caution has to be used in interpreting such data, especially in view of the size of the sample and the complexity of the cohort. Nonetheless, these findings clearly suggest the need for prospective studies on the influence of psychological factors on the progression of AIDS.

Keywords: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*DIET THERAPY/IMMUNOLOGY/ PSYCHOLOGY Adult Human Male Questionnaires T-Lymphocytes/*METABOLISM JOURNAL ARTICLE
900130
M9010512

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Elton John AIDS Foundation, Gill Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Quest Diagnostics, Roche and Trimeris, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1990. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 1990. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .