Influence factors and mechanisms of perioperative immune impairment in elderly patients

Perioperative immune suppression leads to increases in the incidences of postoperative infection, tumor recurrence and impairment of organ functions. Therefore, it is important for them to protect perioperative immune function. The current review summarizes the factors that lead to perioperative immune suppression in the elderly and influences. Senescence is a main factor of immune suppression in elderly people. Surgery may further deteriorate immune function. Anesthetics are also involved in immune regulation. But the related mechanisms are not totally revealed. Further clinical investigations are needed to regulate vulnerability, reduce the influence of surgery and anesthetics on immune function and provide scientific evidence for immune regulation. Key words: Aged; Perioperative; Immunologic competence