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

Abstract

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<.01), IL-10 (b=.77, p=.02), and CRP (b=.10, p<.01) increased in all patients from baseline to 3 month follow-up and to a greater extent in patients who received yoga. PTSD symptoms reduced in both conditions over time (b=-3.93, p<.01); groups did not differ in magnitude of symptom reduction (b=-2.68, p=.25). Findings indicate CPT and yoga have the potential to alter immunological mechanisms and improve symptoms of PTSD, with additional long-term change for yoga participants. Future research should examine the health consequences of immunological changes following these interventions.