DNAse in non-CF patients

[Martin345]

we frequently use DNAse (dornase alfa) in CF patients to help with sputum clearance

i had an idea yesterday with a difficult non-CF patient to use it with her. she has COPD/asthma, and during this current infective exacerbation has extraordinarily think secretions which take a tremendous amount of effort to clear.

we've tried the works: ACBT, manual techniques, postural drainage, ultrasonic nebuliser, saline nebulisers, treating after bronchodilator nebulisers, walking

anyone ever tried this? the other option which i think the doctors will agree to first is n-acetylscysteine (parvolex) nebs

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[Fiona Schreuder]

Martin
It is my understanding that DNAse only works on CF sputum as this sputum is of a distinct genetic make up. I am sure if you do a PubMed search you will find trials in other patient groups eg bronchiectatics.

[Martin345]

i've since heard of a consultant using it in non-cf patients.
all sputum contains dna, so it can target all sputum. there are probably types of sputum/patient groups where it's more effective

*runs off to do literature search*

[Martin345]

haven't done lit search
BUT
we're using it for a patient in itu now and it seems to be working very well.
it works on any dna so it's not cf-specific