The immunomodulatory effects of statins in community-acquired pneumonia: A systematic review

SummaryObjectiveTo evaluate the potential immunomodulatory effects of statins in community-acquired pneumonia.MethodsWe performed a systematic review of available literature on experimental and clinical studies. We used a PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE search to identify potential articles.ResultsWe identified 34 original studies, 17 experimental and 17 clinical studies, published up to March 2013.ConclusionsStatins attenuated pulmonary inflammation by modulating neutrophil function, by reducing cytokine expression and release, and by protecting against disruption of pulmonary integrity. However, additional experimental studies are needed to fully elucidate the exact mechanisms. Several clinical studies suggested a decreased risk of CAP or a reduction in mortality due to CAP for current statin users, but the mostly observational design of these studies hampers the interpretation of their results. Therefore, appropriately designed studies, such as randomised controlled trials, are required to demonstrate the usefulness of statins in the prevention and treatment of CAP.