Chronic <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> endobronchitis in rhesus monkeys: I. Effect of pentoxifylline on neutrophil influx

Abstract

Host defense abnormalities in cystic fibrosis (CF) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) lead to excessive neutrophil influx into the infected lungs, resulting in pulmonary complications. We have developed a rhesus monkey model of chronic PA endobronchitis by intrabronchial instillation of PA-embedded agar beads, utilizing flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Treatment of infected monkeys with pentoxifylline suppressed neutrophil influx and ameliorated pulmonary damage. The results suggest a method by which neutrophil influx and pulmonary damage in CF patients can be managed or prevented.