[The metabolic effects of glucocorticosteroids in patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis]

The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of glucocorticosteroids on metabolic processes that occur in alveolar macrophages and bronchoalveolar liquid in patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis, in particular the activity of the antioxidant defense system, processes of hydrogen peroxide generation, and the content of phospholipids. It has been discovered that in patients suffering from chronic obstructive bronchitis, glucocorticosteroids suppress hydrogen peroxide production and exert a negligible effect on the antioxidant system of alveolar macrophages as well as stimulate the synthesis of phospholipids in pulmonary tissue and suppress phospholipase A2 activity. To prevent unfavourable metabolic effects of glucocorticosteroids, antioxidants and stimulants of phagocytosis can be applied.