Abstract
Infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV), a beta-herpesvirus, is common within the population. Although asymptomatic, infection is associated with increased serum concentrations of cytokines such as TNFalpha and IL-6, which are also related to mood and wellbeing. The present study examined whether infection with CMV was associated with mood in a community-based sample of older adults. Blood samples and scores on the General Health Questionnaire were available for 137 participants. Serum was analysed for the presence of CMV-specific IgG and the antibody titre was used as an indirect measure of viral load. The majority of the participants (66%) were CMV-seropositive and seropositive status was not associated with psychological morbidity. However, within the CMV-positive group, individuals with higher CMV-specific antibody titres were more likely to be depressed, anxious, and suffer more overall psychological morbidity. This association could be mediated by the impact of affect-moderating cytokines secreted through the CMV-specific immune response.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 52-55 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Brain, Behaviour, and Immunity |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | 1 |
Early online date | 20 Aug 2007 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2008 |
Keywords
- anxiety
- ageing
- depression
- cytomegalovirus