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Vascular endothelial growth factor levels in active pulmonary tuberculosis
Füsun Alatas1, Ozkan Alatas, Muzaffer Metintas
1Department of Chest Diseases, The Medical School, Osmangazi University, Eskişehir, Turkey. fusunalatas@yahoo.com
Chest
|June 11, 2004
Summary
Active pulmonary tuberculosis is linked to higher serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels. Treatment for tuberculosis reduced these elevated VEGF levels, suggesting VEGF as a potential indicator.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) promotes angiogenesis and vascular permeability.
- Active pulmonary tuberculosis lesions exhibit significant angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare serum VEGF levels in active tuberculosis, inactive tuberculosis, and healthy individuals.
- To evaluate changes in serum VEGF levels before and after tuberculosis treatment.
Main Methods:
- Prospective clinical study conducted at a university hospital chest clinic.
- Serum VEGF levels measured in 44 active TB patients, 24 inactive TB patients, and 20 controls.
- VEGF levels assessed pre- and post-treatment in a subset of patients.
Main Results:
- Serum VEGF levels were significantly higher in active pulmonary tuberculosis patients compared to inactive TB patients and healthy controls (p < 0.001).
- A statistically significant decrease in serum VEGF levels was observed after successful tuberculosis treatment (p < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Elevated serum VEGF may serve as a biomarker for active pulmonary tuberculosis.
- VEGF-driven angiogenesis likely plays a role in tuberculosis pathogenesis and lesion progression.