Effects of Inhaled Glucocorticoids on Blood Cells in Asthma
Author Information
Author(s): W. A. T. Slieker, P. Th. W. van Hal, J. M. Wijkhuijs, J. P. M. Hopstaken-Broos, J. A. Noordhoek, S. E. Overbeek, P. G. H. Mulder, D. S. Postma, H. C. Hoogsteden
Primary Institution: Erasmus University Rotterdam and University Hospital Rotterdam-Dijkzigt
Hypothesis
What is the effect of long-term inhaled glucocorticoid therapy on peripheral blood monocytes in allergic asthma patients?
Conclusion
Long-term treatment with inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate alters the expression of certain cell surface antigens on peripheral blood monocytes in allergic asthmatics.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients treated with inhaled glucocorticoids showed significant changes in cell surface antigen expression compared to healthy controls.
- CD14 antigen expression was almost two-fold higher in patients treated with inhaled glucocorticoids than in those treated with anticholinergic or placebo.
- Long-term therapy with inhaled glucocorticoids was associated with a reduced expression of CD11b antigen.
Takeaway
This study found that using a specific asthma medication for a long time changes how some blood cells look and act.
Methodology
The study involved 12 allergic asthmatic patients treated with inhaled glucocorticoids and 7 healthy controls, analyzing cell surface antigen expression on peripheral blood monocytes.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and did not evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of the observed changes.
Participant Demographics
Non-smoking patients with allergic asthma and healthy volunteers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.02
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