Neurologic mechanisms in psychoneuroimmunology.

Synthesizing the neurologic mechanisms of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) into a schematic model serves as a basis to enhance understanding of the complex interactions within the PNI framework. The examination of current research in physiology, neurotransmission, hormonal mechanisms, immunologic function and stress allows for the creation of a neurological model to depict hypothetical interactions of these systems. This model of neurological mechanisms in PNI can serve as the basis for integrating PNI in nursing practice. It is hoped that the model will serve as a bridge to understanding the neuroscience component of PNI and stimulate further research.