Dynamic vascular changes following intravenous antibiotics in patients with cystic fibrosis

BackgroundAdults with cystic fibrosis (CF) have altered large artery haemodynamics which is associated with a persisting systemic inflammatory state. We hypothesized that a short-term intervention favorably influencing the inflammatory status may modify their haemodynamic state.MethodsAdult patients with CF were studied immediately preceding and following 2 weeks of intravenous antibiotics. Large artery haemodynamics, principally heart rate-adjusted augmentation index (AIx) were obtained. Blood pressure (BP), spirometry and CRP were also measured.ResultsComplete data was available for 15 patients; mean (SD) age 28 (6) years. CRP was reduced while FEV1% predicted improved. Following treatment AIx was lower: 10.9 (10.9)% to 8.1 (10.9)% (p < 0.05) while BP was similar and a trend toward lower heart rate (p = 0.06). Change in AIx was related to baseline FEV1% predicted (r = 0.77) and BMI (r = 0.71) (both P < 0.01).ConclusionThe abnormal central haemodynamics evident in adults with CF is modulated with a short intervention of intravenous antibiotics.