Long-term effect of DNase in cystic fibrosis

Aim:The long-term effect of DNase with cystic fibrosis was examined. Patients and Methods: 12 Patients with CF inhaled daily 2.5 mg of rhDNase over an 18-months period. A treatment break was introduced after one year for three months. The examined parameters were FVC, FEV1 and TGV (endexspiratory). Results: Compared to the pre-treatment baseline value, the FVC increased by an average of 10.5% and the FEV1 by an average of 15.4% after the first month of treatment. After one year,these results had further increased. The TGV was reduced by 5.8% after the first month and was identical to the baseline-value after one year of treatment. Following marked deterioration during the treatment break,the positive treatment results could be clearly observed once treatment was resumed. Treatment success was not observed to be dependent on the severity of CF. The respond to therapy in 54 of the 12 patients was equaly effective in both treatment periods. Conclusion: Long-term DNase treatment has a favourable effect on the lung function parameters of CF patients. It is not possible to define a special target group for treatment. During the courses of illness, response to treatment varies. A general use of DNase can not yet be recommended.