[The clinico-pathogenetic role of the eicosanoid system in pulmonary tuberculosis]

Contents of leukotrienes B4, C4, C4/D4/E4, prostaglandins E and F2a, thromboxane B2 and 6-keto-PgF1a were studied by radioimmunoassay in patients with fresh and chronic pulmonary tuberculosis. Eicosanoids were established to take an active part in pathogenetical mechanisms of tuberculous process. Local forms of the disease were characterized by moderately risen level both of leukotrienes and prostaglandins. Freshly detected disseminated destructive process was accompanied by increased activity mainly of LtC4, LtC4/D4/E4 as well as of prostacyclin-thromboxane system and PgF2a. Advance of pulmonary tuberculosis was associated with activated LtB4 and TxB2 synthesis and decreased production of PgI2, PgE, LtC4, LtC4/D4/E4.