Relationships between various temperament dimensions, levels of selected cytokines and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in males, incurred as a result of mechanical injuries of lower extremities.

Objectives: This analysis addresses the relationships between various temperament dimensions, levels of selected cytokines and PTSD in males, incurred as a result of mechanical injuries of lower extremities.

Methods: PTSD was assessed with a PTSD Factorial Version Inventory. Temperamental traits were evaluated by means of Formal Characteristics of Behaviour - Temperament Inventory (FCB-TI). Cytokine levels were determined using ELISA kits. The study population was selected from among a larger population of 80 persons. 15 persons with signs of inflammation were excluded. PTSD group included 33 persons, 32 subjects were included in the control group.

Results: Positive statistical correlation with PTSD was observed for: perseverance and emotional reactivity. On the other hand, negative relationship was shown between PTSD and: briskness, endurance and activity. No statistically significant correlations were revealed between the levels of selected cytokines (sIL-2, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha & IFN-gamma) and temperamental traits. Moreover, this study investigates the relationships between temperamental traits, PTSD and various personality dimensions.

Conclusions: 1. Patients with temperamental traits such as high perseverance and emotional reactivity had a greater risk of PTSD. 2. Patients with temperamental traits such as high briskness, endurance and activity had lower risk of PTSD. 3. The level of cytokines (sIL-2, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma) was not dependent on the temperamental traits.