Influence of Scalp Acupuncture on Serum Tumor Necrosis Factor in Patients with Acute Cerebral Infarction

Purpose To observe the influence of scalp acupuncture on serum tumor necrosis factor in patients with acute cerebral infarction. Methods Sixty cases of acute cerebral infarction were randomly divided into an acupuncture group and a non acupuncture group. Enzyme linked immunoassay was used to measure serum TNF before and after acupuncture and evaluate limb function. Results Serum TNF dropped in both the groups after the treatment was finished, but it did markedly in the acupuncture group and there was a significant difference ( P 0.01). The evaluation of limb function showed that it improved markedly in the acupuncture group after 15 days and there was a significant difference between before and after acupuncture ( P 0.05), while it did not in the control group 15 days after general treatment. Conclusion Scalp acupuncture in the early stage of acute cerebral infarction can decrease serum TNF content and promote the recovery of brain tissues and limb function.