Effects of life events and stress on neutrophil functions in elderly men

Background: Psychological stress or life events might significantly decrease neutrophil function in elderly individuals and lead to infectious diseases. However, relationships between these factors have not been examined in detail. We investigated the relationships between neutrophil function measured using the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction test and measurements of psychological stress and life events among 81 men aged over 60 years. Results: The numbers and scores for life events were significantly higher (p<0.01, respectively) in a group with values reflecting phagocytosis below the median than in a control group.