A Cross-sectional Analysis of Immunological and Hematological Parameters in Patients With Chronic Opioid Use


Ergelen M., USTA SAĞLAM N. G., Arpacıoğlu M. S., Yalçın M., İZCİ F.

Journal of Psychiatric Practice, cilt.31, sa.3, ss.116-124, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 31 Sayı: 3
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000861
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Psychiatric Practice
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.116-124
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: opioid use disorder, opioid dependence, inflammation, C-reactive protein, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio
  • Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Background and Aim: Previous research has recognized the dual role of opioids [agonists at μ-opioid receptors (MOP-r agonists)] in modulating immunity and neuroinflammation in individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). This cross-sectional study investigates the interplay between chronic use of MOP-r agonists and inflammatory parameters in individuals with OUD, with the goal of providing insights into the relationship between immunological responses and OUD. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 129 patients with OUD seeking treatment at an addiction detoxification center underwent detailed clinical assessments. Blood samples were collected for analyses of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and C-reactive protein levels, and a complete blood count. Participants were categorized into inflammation and noninflammation groups based on C-reactive protein levels. Hematological and inflammation indices, along with pain severity, were compared between these groups. Results: Significant differences were observed between the inflammation and noninflammation groups on variables such as duration of MOP-r agonist intake, daily buprenorphine/naloxone dose, consumption route, severity of withdrawal symptoms, and level of self-reported pain. The inflammation group exhibited higher neutrophil counts and an increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. The binary logistic regression models revealed that self-reported pain level, daily buprenorphine/naloxone dosage, Beck Depression Inventory scores, and age were significant predictors of inflammation. Conclusions: This study contributes to our understanding of OUD as a chronic inflammatory condition, shedding light on the intricate relationships between MOP-r agonist addiction, inflammatory responses, and withdrawal-related parameters. The findings offer valuable perspectives on effective management, emphasizing the need for further research in diverse populations to enhance understanding of this complex condition.