Proposed mechanisms and preventative options of Jarisch-Herxheimer reactions.
OBJECTIVE
To review the aetiologies and preventative methods associated with Jarisch-Herxheimer reactions (JHR).


METHODS
Ovid Medline (1966-June Week 1 2004) was utilized to assess biomedical literature; a review of the bibliographies of articles was also performed.


RESULTS
JHR often occurs with the treatment of spirochete infections. However, the mechanism by which the reaction takes place is not clearly defined.


CONCLUSIONS
Studies suggest with conflicting evidence that the JHR is caused by release of endotoxin-like material from the spirochete as well as cytokine elevation in the body. It appears the type of drug and the rate of spirochete clearance from the body have little effect on the incidence of the reaction. Many pretreatment options have been explored with limited efficacy with the exception of anti-tumour necrosis factor antibodies.
Pound
M W
MW
Department of Pharmacy Practice, Campbell University School of Pharmacy, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA. mpound@capefearvalley.com
May
D B
DB
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016207:Cytokines / Q000378:metabolism; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004731:Endotoxins / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D013144:Spirochaetales / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism; D013145:Spirochaetales Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D016207:Cytokines; D004731:Endotoxins