Natural Killer Cells as an Outcome Measure of Chiropractic Treatment Efficacy

Brennan P, Lohr G, Nodine D, O’Brien JProceedings of the Int’l Conference of Spinal Manipulation 1990 May: 109-12

Natural killer (NK) cells are a unique sub population of lymphocytes can be distinguished from thymus derived (T) and bursa-equivalent (B) lymphocytes on the basis of their morphology, cell surface antigens, and ability to kill certain tumor cell lines and virally infected cells in vitro. Depressed natural immunity as measured by decreased numbers and/or activity of circulating NK cells is associated with the development of both leukemias and solid tumors, as well as acute and chronic viral infections (1-3), including chronic fatigue syndrome (3,4). Low numbers or low activity of NK cells has also been associated with various autoimmune diseases (5-8). Recently, depressed absolute numbers of NK cells have been found in patients with clinical psychiatric depression, in patients with chronic headache pain and in otherwise healthy individuals who are experiencing difficulty in handling the everyday stress of normal living (3,9,10). Some workers believe that low NK numbers and/or low NK activity may be among the most sensitive indicators of biological modulation. As such, low NK cell numbers and/or decreased NK cell function may be useful as prognostic markers for clinical improvement in patients receiving chiropractic therapy. As a first step in examining this hypothesis, we compared NK cell numbers in patients presenting to the main outpatient clinic of the National College of Chiropractic over a four month period with NK cell numbers in a group of asymptomatic control subjects.

SOTO | USA > SOT Literature > Headache > Unusual or Rare Headache Findings > Natural Killer Cells as an Outcome Measure of Chiropractic Treatment Efficacy

Editor Recommends
Most Read Articles

Editor Recommends

This SOT Literature Page and all its contents herein are published by SOTO-USA solely for the purpose of education. All rights reserved by SOTO-USA to accept, reject or modify any submission for publication. The opinions stated in the electronically printed material herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SOTO-USA or other individuals associated with SOTO-USA. SOTO-USA does not guarantee or make any representation that the printed material contained herein is valid, reliable or accurate. SOTO-USA does not assume any responsibility for injury arising from any use or misuse of the printed material herein. The printed material contained herein is assumed to be from reliable sources and there is no implication that the printed material herein present the only, or the best methodologies or procedures for the care or treatment of conditions discussed. It is incumbent upon the reader to verify the accuracy of any diagnosis and treatment information contained herein, and to make modifications as new information and/or research arises.