Azithromycin as a Treatment for COPD

After 12 weeks of low-dose azithromycin, COPD patients showed increased alveolar macrophage expression of mannose receptors and increased phagocytosis of apoptotic bronchial epithelium cells.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with inflammation and loss of lung integrity. Some investigators have hypothesized that these changes result from dysregulated apoptosis of bronchial epithelial cells and reduced phagocytosis by alveolar macrophages (AMs). Low-dose macrolide antibiotics have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, and azithromycin may be particularly useful because of its ability to reach high levels in AMs. One proposed mechanism for these macrolide effects involves enhanced expression of collectins and their receptors. Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) — a lung collectin — binds to mannose receptors (MRs) on the surface of AMs and augments phagocytosis.

In a partially industry-funded study invo…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)