Neopterin Determinations in Tuberculous Bone Infections

Abstract

In patients with tuberculous chest infections caused by intracellular Mycobacteria elevated serum neopterin levels could be found. In the present study neopterin levels were elevated in 5/6 patients with proven tuberculous bone infections as well. Neopterin determinations in serum were especially helpful for the drug monitoring of these patients. After a sufficient antituberculous therapy initially elevated neopterin levels decreased and remained within normal range. Persistent elevation of neopterin may be a hint for a resistance of the Mycobacteria.

Keywords

• neopterin
• bone infection
• mycobacteria
• drug monitoring