sjogrens and killer T cells

[camj]

Is Sjogren's characterized as a lack of killer T cells and would it be helpful if you could take a supplement that one of its functions is to increase T cell activity. Specifically I've been reading about astaxanthin. Orginally reading about it as something that would help my mothers macular degeneration. Then I read it increases T cell activity. From what I understand we are suspectible to lymphomas because of a decrease in killer T cells.

[kindandcaring]

Hi camj

I think its fair to say that currently the cause and effect and the finding of a decent treatment of Sjogrens and all the myriad of Autoimmune Diseases is still yet to occur.

Anything you read that could help might or might not help.

For instance have a read of the Faustman BCG Trial which elevates (for a while) the TNF Alpha which is supposed to then destroy the destructive T cells
I also have read that some researchers are looking at ways to increase the Regulatory T cell count (as they are the policemen of our immune system)

Many different approaches...but researchers ideas do not all fit together currently...such is the seemingingly complex nature of us the living.

Its confusing at the moment..with many more questions than answers.
So to answer your question, I really dont know....and probably no one knows, the best one can do is research and make ones own mind up as to what supplements they should take...weighing up the positives and negative sides of the supplement and any interaction with meds..

And of course telling ones Doctor what your taking makes sense.

All my best

Ron

[Scottietottie]

Hi Camj 

SjS is the immune system being over active and killing off bits of us - as well as attacking 'invaders'. Our immune system is not differentiating between friend and foe.
It really doesn't need to be encouraged to do any more killing!!
Drugs like pred and methotrexate damp down the immune system. They don't boost it.

Take care - Scottie 

[irish]

Speaking as a person with severely low T-cells, I would avoid taking anything that would affect the t-cells. Remember that autoimmune can really do a job on many of our organs also. The bone marrow, spleen and thymus gland are also affected in many of the autoimmune diseases and this affects how the t-cells are made and matured.

Any product that is supposed to enhance the immune system etc is a no-no. Never take any OTC drug or natural product until you have spoken to your doctor.  T-cell problems are very complex and to be dealt with only by a doc who specializes in hematology (blood), infectious diseases(doc who treats HIV) Immunologist, etc. Very complex problems with lots of different treatments. Irish

[ProudAuntieNWash]

Thanks Irish. My Dr had told me long ago about my bone marrow being out of sorts. Thanks for explaining it.

Denise