EFECTO DE LA ELECTROACUPUNTURA SOBRE LOS NIVELES SÉRICOS DE TNFα EN PACIENTES OBESOS

Abstract

Background. Obesity is one of the oldest conditions in the world. However, it is not until recently that it has been recognized as an illness, due to its high prevalence in the general population and its consequences on public health. Objectives. To evaluate the effect of electroacupuncture on body weight and TNFα serum levels in obese patients, through immunedetection with ELISA technique, in response to the application of a points’ formula. Hypothesis. The application of the Zhongwan (RM12), Qihai (RM6), Tianshu (E25), Zusanli (E36), and Sanyinjiao (B6) points’ formulas decreases body weight and TNFα serum levels in obese patients. Methodology. A total of 25 patients were randomized to an experimental group (16 patients) and a control group (9 patients). Blood was drawn from each patient to be tested for TNFα before and after the treatment. Somatométricas measures were also obtained meach session, which was applied three times a week for 10 sessions. Results. After analyzing the results from the baseline tests and the final tests, there were no significant changes in body weight and TNFα serum levels quantified by ELISA technique with de Quantikine human TNFα kit. In addition, during the investigation, the following findings were revealed: an increase in the hematocrit percentage (p<0.005), and a decrease in the monocyte percentage (p<0.005). Conclusions. There were no significant changes in body weight and TNFα serum levels.