Association between burnout and immunological and endocrine alterations

Abstract

Background: Weather a psychological construct or a clinical entity, numerous studies have been focused on the biological link between stress, burnout, and biomarkers. Aim: The purpose of our study was to search the existing literature and summarize the immunological and endocrine alterations found in burnout patients and, also, to provide updated data for clinicians to use. Methods: We performed a literature search in PubMed database using specific terms. Results: The primary focus of the literature seems to be the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which may be affected due to chronic stress, which can be investigated by measuring hormonal responsiveness [corticotropinreleasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, prolactin, thyroid hormones]. An important challenge that this field is faced with is the pulsatile and diurnal fluctuation of them, which may not always be considered and the heterogeneity of burnout measurements. Many studies have explored the linking pathways between the immune system and chronic stress, but only a few have specifically evaluated this process for future diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. Conclusions: Burnout has cumulative effects on our body and stress does not affect us in a singular direction, on the contrary, significant clinical implications are found, not only microscopic, but affective symptoms leading to anxiety and depression.