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Pentoxifylline therapy in HIV seropositive subjects with elevated TNF
Immunopharmacology
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Pentoxifylline did not improve immune function or cachexia in HIV patients with elevated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). However, it caused gastrointestinal side effects and showed in vitro immune suppression.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is implicated in HIV-associated cachexia.
- Pentoxifylline, a TNF-alpha suppressor, was proposed as a potential treatment for HIV-seropositive patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of pentoxifylline on the cellular immune system in HIV-seropositive individuals with elevated TNF-alpha.
- To assess changes in immune cell function, plasma TNF-alpha levels, and clinical parameters.
Main Methods:
- An open, randomized, cross-over study involving six HIV-seropositive subjects with elevated TNF-alpha.
- Subjects received pentoxifylline (800 mg thrice daily) or a control for 6 weeks each.
- Blood samples were analyzed for TNF-alpha, immune cell subpopulations, proliferative responses, NK, and LAK cell activities.
Main Results:
- Pentoxifylline treatment did not alter plasma TNF-alpha, immune cell subpopulations, or cellular immune activities (proliferative responses, NK, LAK).
- No significant changes were observed in patient weight, temperature, well-being, or tiredness.
- Frequent gastrointestinal side effects were reported by patients.
Conclusions:
- Pentoxifylline at the studied dose and duration does not appear to benefit the cellular immune system or clinical status in HIV-seropositive patients with elevated TNF-alpha.
- In vitro studies suggest pentoxifylline may suppress immune cell activity at higher concentrations.