Inhaled hypertonic saline+hyaluronic acid in cystic fibrosis with asthma-like symptoms: a new therapeutic chance

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Apr 29:2013:bcr2013009042. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009042.

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to report the case of a boy affected by cystic fibrosis, with non-ABPA-related recurrent wheezing and frequent pulmonary exacerbation during childhood, who had been inhaling 7% NaCl+0.1% hyaluronic acid (HA) as a maintenance therapy. We reviewed patient database and, analysing a 7-year follow-up, considered pulmonary exacerbation, antibiotic and steroid courses, pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in one second; FEV1) and microbiological data. After starting 7% NaCl+0.1% HA treatment, we observed a dramatic decrease of oral antibiotic need (0.55 courses/month during the pretreatment period against 0.10 courses/month in the treatment period), associated with a good initial recovery and a stability of FEV1. In our opinion this case could suggest an extended indication for inhaled 7% NaCl+0.1% HA use in CF, not only in patients who did not tolerate hypertonic saline, but also in patients with coexistent asthma-like symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Asthma / drug therapy*
  • Asthma / physiopathology
  • Cystic Fibrosis / drug therapy*
  • Cystic Fibrosis / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Hyaluronic Acid / administration & dosage*
  • Male
  • Saline Solution, Hypertonic / administration & dosage*
  • Viscosupplements / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Saline Solution, Hypertonic
  • Viscosupplements
  • Hyaluronic Acid