Experimental hookworm infection: a randomized placebo-controlled trial in asthma.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Epidemiological studies suggest that hookworm infection protects against asthma, and therefore that hookworm infection may have a direct or an indirect therapeutic potential in this disease. We now report the first clinical trial of experimental hookworm infection in people with allergic asthma.

Objectives

To determine the effects of experimental hookworm infection in asthma.

Methods

Thirty-two individuals with asthma and measurable airway responsiveness to adenosine monophosphate (AMP) were randomized and double blinded to cutaneous administration of either ten Necator americanus larvae, or histamine solution (placebo), and followed for 16 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in provocation dose of inhaled AMP required to reduce forced expiratory volu

SUBMITTER: Feary JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2814083 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature