Med Clin Barcelona
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Neutrophils play a key role in the innate immune system, providing the first line of host defense. In addition to their ability to eliminate pathogens by phagocytosis and antimicrobial secretions, it has recently been shown that neutrophils can trap and kill microorganisms by the release of extracellular structures composed of DNA and antimicrobial proteins called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). ⋯ Besides, the excessive generation of NETs or a disruption in their clearance mechanism might be associated with the development of certain autoimmune diseases. This review describes the structure, function and generation of NETs, and their possible implication in the initiation and/or progression of different diseases.
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Comparative Study
[Clinical factors associated with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in patients with chronic pneumopathies and respiratory isolation of Aspergillus spp].
To determine clinical variables to distinguish invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) from colonization in patients with chronic pneumopathies with positive culture of Aspergillus spp. in respiratory samples. ⋯ Prior use of fluconazole, severe respiratory failure and hospitalization time are associated with IPA in patients with chronic pneumopathies with respiratory isolation of Aspergillus spp.