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ISSN 1405-1699 (Print)
Órgano Oficial del Colegio Mexicano de Alergia, Asma e Inmunología Pediátrica y de la Asociación Latinoamericana de Pediatría

1999, Number 3

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Alerg Asma Inmunol Pediatr 1999; 8 (3)

Immunomodulatory effect of a glycoprotein from Klebsiella versus levamisole in asthmatic patients with phagocytic deficiency

Almeida VM, Matta JJ, Hernández DD, Campos MG

Language: English
References: 19
Page: 85-89
PDF size: 282.75 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Background: Levamisole and Klebsiella glycoprotein (KGP) are immunomodulators used to increase phagocytosis in cases of moderate immunodeficiency, as those observed in patients with bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis. Frequently such patients develop phagocytic dysfunctions with recurrent respiratory infections. Although levamisole has been extensively studied, comparative studies regarding effectiveness, and side and adverse effects of KGP are lacking.
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of levamisole and KGP regarding phagocytic index, frequency and severity of infectious processes, and side and adverse effects in patients with respiratory infections and bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
Methods: Thirty-six patients with bronchial asthma, rhinosinusitis or chronic bronchitis with bronchial hyperresponsiveness secondary to respiratory infections, and phagocytic deficiency were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind trial comparing oral levamisole with oral KGP. Efficacy of the two treatments was compared based upon changes in rest and activated phagocytic index, recurrent infectious processes, and side and adverse effects.
Results: No statistically significant differences were detected between the two treatment groups, except for side effects which occurred with significantly lower frequency after KGP ingestion.
Conclusion: KGP treatment is recommended over levamisole for patients with phagocytic deficiency due to the lower occurrence and severity of side effects produced.


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