[Anaesthesia and immunology (author's transl)].

There is evidence of immunosuppressive influence of trauma/operation and anesthesia. The human immunological system is outlined as a complex functioning apparatus with humoral and cellular factors. The influence of operation and/or anesthesia on immunocompetence has been demonstrated by animal studies, in vitro examinations and clinical investigations. The analysis of these results and their significance for an impairment of the immunological surveillance of the patient is tried to be elucidated. There should be payed attention to the clinical consequences, especially in patients on high risk.