Reclaiming the Terrain: A Psychoneuroimmunology Framework for Chronic Illness

Abstract

Chronic illnesses such as chronic fatigue syndrome, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), post-viral syndromes, and inflammatory disorders are often approached through reductionist, siloed systems & symptom-based frameworks. However, these conditions frequently reflect dysregulation across interconnected systems rather than isolated pathology.

This lecture introduces a Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)-informed terrain model, positioning the nervous system as the central regulator of immune, inflammatory, and metabolic function. Drawing on clinical experience, the session explores how stress/trauma, environmental exposures, and impaired physiological processing contribute to chronic illness.

Key concepts include:

• The role of the autonomic nervous system in immune modulation
• Neuroimmune signalling and inflammatory amplification
• Secondarily downregulated key systems include impaired detoxification and metabolism
• The importance of restoring physiological regulation for system coherence

Rather than focusing solely on pathogen eradication, detoxification or symptom suppression, this framework emphasises supporting the body’s regulatory capacity to facilitate recovery. This integrative model offers clinicians a broader lens through which to assess and support patients with complex, multisystem conditions.