Changes to Immunological Mechanisms and Symptoms of PTSD after Group Cognitive Processing Therapy vs. Trauma-Sensitive Yoga for Women Veterans with PTSD

• Published in: Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023-07, Vol.153, p.106221, Article 106221
• Main Authors: Zaccari, Belle, Newman, Aurora, Kelly, Ursula, Lovejoy, Travis, Loftis, Jennifer M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0306-4530; 1873-3360
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106221

Lifetime prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Veterans is double that of civilians. Immunological mechanisms are implicated in PTSD, including cardiovascular and autoimmune consequences. Yoga shows promise to reduce psychological symptoms of PTSD and positively impact immunological mechanisms. We collected dried blood spot samples at baseline, 2 weeks, and 3 months post-intervention from women Veterans with PTSD (N=28), randomized to either cognitive processing therapy (CPT) or trauma-sensitive yoga. Concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured using multiplex bead-based immunoassay. The CAPS-5 measured PTSD symptoms. Generalized estimating equations modelled Time X Treatment to examine changes in immune factors and PTSD symptoms. We hypothesized baseline levels of immune factors would significantly improve over time (decreases in IL-6, CRP and increases in IL-10) in yoga participants compared to CPT participants and that PTSD symptoms would improve in both groups. IL-6 (b=.68, p