The deleterious effect of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (CSF-1) on the pathology of experimental candidiasis in mice.

Abstract

Mice infected with Candida albicans albicans intravenously were treated before or after infection with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (CSF-1) to elevate their circulating monocyte and tissue macrophage counts. Both treatments exacerbated the disease, causing a doubling of the rate of weight loss and leading to significantly earlier death. The results suggest that macrophages play a major role in the pathology of the disease.