Abstract
The appropriate distribution of immune cells within the body is crucial for performance of the surveillance and effector functions of the immune system. Stress can significantly affect baseline leukocyte numbers as well as dynamic leukocyte distribution between different body compartments. Organs that are enriched with immune cells during stress may mount more robust immune responses, whereas those that are depleted may show suppressed immune function. It has been proposed that stress-induced changes in leukocyte trafficking may enhance immunoprotection during surgery, vaccination, or infection but may also exacerbate immunopathology during inflammatory (cardiovascular disease or gingivitis) or autoimmune (psoriasis, arthritis, or multiple sclerosis) diseases.