Effects of cefodizime on non-specific immune functions in patients with multiple myeloma

The effects of cefodizime (CDZ) on non-specific immunity in patients with multiple myeloma were studied in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 51 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma were admitted to the study, 27 of whom received CDZ 2 gi.v. once daily for seven days and 24 ascorbic acid 1 g daily i.v. for one week. Granulocyte chemotaxis, neutrophil biochemiluminescence and phagocytosis were determined at baseline, and at 48 h after the last dose. At baseline, chemiluminescence, phagocytosis and, to a lesser extent, granulocyte chemotaxis were diminished in both patient groups compared to healthy volunteers. After treatment, a significant increase in chemiluminescence and phagocytosis was observed in the CDZ group, while a slight increase in granulocyte chemotaxis did not reach statistical significance. No changes were observed in the control group. It is concluded that CDZ enhanced non-specific immune mechanisms in patients with multiple myeloma.