This document provides methods and materials involved in reducing suppression of immune function in mammals. For example, methods and materials for (a) identifying a mammal as having an elevated level of CD14+/DR− cells (e.g., CD14+/DR− monocytes) and (b) administering RU486 (mifepristone or drugs with a similar functional profile) to the identified mammal under conditions that change the ratio of CD14+/HLA-DR− cells to CD14+/HLA-DR+ cells as well as methods and materials for (a) identifying a mammal as being likely to experience an elevated level of CD14+/DR− cells (e.g., CD14+/DR− monocytes) and (b) administering RU486 (mifepristone or drugs with a similar functional profile) to the identified mammal under conditions that reduce the degree to which the mammal develops CD14+/DR− cells are provided.
