Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Antibiotic Efficacy Testing in an Ex vivo Model of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms in the Cystic Fibrosis Lung
09:26

Antibiotic Efficacy Testing in an Ex vivo Model of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms in the Cystic Fibrosis Lung

Published on: January 22, 2021

Update on infection and antibiotics in asthma

Donald R Rollins1, David A Beuther, Richard J Martin

  • 1Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health and the University of Colorado, Denver, CO 80206, USA.

Current Allergy and Asthma Reports
|April 29, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae infections may contribute to asthma. Treating these infections with macrolide antibiotics may improve asthma symptoms and lung function, potentially by reducing inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Asthma pathogenesis involves complex genetic and environmental factors.
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae are implicated in airway inflammation contributing to asthma.
  • Antimicrobial therapy may alter asthma's course by eradicating these pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae in asthma.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of macrolide antibiotics in managing asthma associated with these infections.

Main Methods:

  • Review of evidence linking C. pneumoniae and M. pneumoniae to asthma.
  • Analysis of studies on macrolide antibiotic treatment for asthma patients with confirmed infections.
  • Consideration of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for patient selection.

Main Results:

  • Macrolide antibiotics have demonstrated improvements in asthma symptom control and lung function.
  • Eradication or suppression of C. pneumoniae or M. pneumoniae may positively impact disease progression.
  • PCR testing is crucial for identifying suitable candidates for chronic macrolide therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Macrolide antibiotics show promise in managing asthma, particularly when linked to C. pneumoniae or M. pneumoniae infections.
  • The anti-inflammatory properties of macrolides may offer additional therapeutic benefits beyond antimicrobial action.
  • Targeted antimicrobial treatment guided by diagnostic tests is essential for optimizing asthma care.

More Related Videos

P. aeruginosa Infected 3D Co-Culture of Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Macrophages at Air-Liquid Interface for Preclinical Evaluation of Anti-Infectives10:26

P. aeruginosa Infected 3D Co-Culture of Bronchial Epithelial Cells and Macrophages at Air-Liquid Interface for Preclinical Evaluation of Anti-Infectives

Published on: June 15, 2020

Long Term Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Airway Infection in Mice15:43

Long Term Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Airway Infection in Mice

Published on: March 17, 2014

Related Concept Videos

Asthma I: Introduction01:28

Asthma I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
Asthma-I: Introduction01:29

Asthma-I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications01:24

Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications

Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management01:20

Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management

Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management

The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract01:29

Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract

The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...