EFECTO DE LA ELECTROACUPUNTURA SOBRE LA INTERLEUCINA 6 EN ADULTOS MAYORES CON DEPRESIÓN

Abstract

Introduction: Depression is a disease where patients feel with a very big sense of sadness. Studies show the increase of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 in depression and in depressive symptoms. The WHO estimates that in 2020, depression will become the biggest health problem at old people in the world, being the most disabling illness, above all the disease of this age group. Aim: To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture on interleukin-6 levels and clinical symptoms in geriatric patients with depression. Methods: 21 geriatric patients with depression were treated with electroacupuncture at Yintang (Extra) and Baihui (DM20) points, twice a week by 10 sessions. Patients were evaluated with the Yesavage Test at the 1, 5 and 10 consultation and also it was evaluated the level of IL-6 at the beginning and the end of the study. Results: We found at the scores of the Yesavage Test, from beginning to end of the study, a decrease of the 45% (p <0.05). Also the levels of IL-6, from the start until the end of the study, decrease a 9.08% (p <0.05). Conclusion: Electroacupuncture applied at Baihui (DM20) and Yintang (Extra) points decreased IL-6 levels and depressive symptoms of geriatric patients with depression.