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Roxithromycin treatment for diarrhoea caused by Cryptosporidium spp. in patients with AIDS
1Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Clinics Hospital of São Paulo University, Brazil.
Abstract:
In view of the action of newer macrolide antibiotics on intracellular protozoa, we have investigated the efficacy of roxithromycin in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis in 26 patients with AIDS. Cryptosporidiosis was confirmed either by faecal examination for parasites (modified Kinyoun method) or by detection of the parasite in biopsy material obtained by colonoscopy. Patients received oral roxithromycin (300 mg bd) for 4 weeks. Twenty-two patients completed the study. At the end of the study, 15 patients (68%) were considered to be cured and six patients (27%) improved, and treatment failed in one patient (5%). We conclude that roxithromycin is a useful treatment for diarrhoea caused by Cryptosporidium spp. associated with AIDS.
Insights
Roxithromycin effectively treated cryptosporidiosis in AIDS patients, with most showing cure or improvement. This macrolide antibiotic offers a useful option for managing this parasitic infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Tropical Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cryptosporidiosis is an opportunistic infection common in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
- Intracellular protozoa infections present treatment challenges, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Macrolide antibiotics have shown potential against certain intracellular protozoa.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of roxithromycin in treating cryptosporidiosis in patients with AIDS.
- To assess the clinical outcomes and tolerability of roxithromycin therapy.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 26 patients diagnosed with AIDS and confirmed cryptosporidiosis.
- Parasite confirmation via fecal examination (modified Kinyoun method) or colonoscopic biopsy.
- Treatment regimen: oral roxithromycin 300 mg twice daily for 4 weeks.
Main Results:
- Twenty-two patients completed the 4-week treatment course.
- A significant majority, 15 patients (68%), achieved a cure.
- An additional six patients (27%) showed clinical improvement, with treatment failure in only one patient (5%).
Conclusions:
- Roxithromycin demonstrates significant efficacy as a treatment for cryptosporidiosis in AIDS patients.
- The macrolide antibiotic is a valuable therapeutic option for managing Cryptosporidium-associated diarrhea in this vulnerable population.