Medicina y psicología, unificadas por medio de la psiconeuroendocrinoinmunología

Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) is an emerging discipline that studies the interactions between the psyche and the nervous, endocrine and immune systems, highlighting their influence on health and disease. The aim of this article was to analyse the theoretical foundations, historical evolution, biological mechanisms and clinical applications of PNEI, promoting a holistic and integrative view of the health-disease process. The methodology consisted of a narrative review of scientific articles and specialised books, with emphasis on studies published in the last 25 years. The results revealed that stress, emotions and psychological disorders directly influence the immune system and physical health. The research showed that psychosocial factors, such as chronic stress, can increase vulnerability to diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. In addition, the importance of psychoneuroimmunological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and meditation, which demonstrated positive effects on mental and physical health, was highlighted. These findings underline the need for a biopsychosocial approach to disease treatment and prevention.