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Effects of ascorbate on leucocytes: Part IV. Increased neutrophil function and clinical improvement after oral
Insights
Vitamin C (ascorbate) supplementation improved neutrophil function and reduced infections in children with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). This study highlights ascorbate
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) is an inherited immune disorder.
- Autosomal recessive CGD presents with defective neutrophil function and elevated IgE.
- Patients often experience recurrent, severe infections.
Observation:
- Two siblings with autosomal recessive CGD were treated with daily oral ascorbate (1g) for six months.
- Neutrophil function (motility, metabolic activity) and serum IgE were monitored monthly.
- Prophylactic antibiotics were administered but stopped before immune testing.
Findings:
- Ascorbate treatment significantly enhanced neutrophil motility and post-phagocytic metabolic activity.
- A notable reduction in serum IgE levels was observed.
- Improved neutrophil function correlated with clinical improvement and weight gain.
Implications:
- Ascorbate may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for CGD.
- Enhanced neutrophil function can lead to reduced infection rates and improved clinical outcomes.
- Further research into vitamin C's role in primary immunodeficiencies is warranted.
Abstract:
A brother and sister with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) of the autosomal recessive type, and with markedly defective neutrophil motility and elevated serum IgE levels, were treated with a single oral daily dose of 1 g ascorbate for 6 months. Neutrophil function and serum IgE levels were measured repeatedly at approximately monthly intervals. Both children also received prophylactic antibiotics which were always stopped 1 week prior to testing of immune function. Ascorbate treatment was accompanied by significantly increased neutrophil motility and post-phagocytic metabolic activity, and a reduction in serum IgE levels. Enhanced neutrophil function correlated with clinical improvement. Both children have remained free of infection since ascorbate was added to their regimen and have gained weight.