Objective: To investigate the effect of montelukast on eosinophil degranulation and recurrent wheezing episodes in post-respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis.
Study design: Two hundred infants (age, 6-24 months) who were hospitalized with their first episode of acute RSV bronchiolitis were randomized in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel comparison of 4-mg montelukast granules (RSV-MONT group) or matching placebo (RSV-PLC group) administered for 3 months. Serum eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) levels were measured (primary outcome), and recurrent wheezing was documented (secondary outcome) for 12 months. Comparisons were made with control subjects (control group, n = 50).
Results: At the end of the 3-month treatment period, the RSV-PLC group (n = 71) exhibited significantly elevated EDN levels (P < .0001), and the RSV-MONT group (n = 79) showed significantly decreased EDN levels (P < .01) when compared with the initial levels. As a result, EDN levels in the 2 RSV groups significantly differed at this point (P < .0001) and remained different for the entire 12-month follow-up period. Cumulative recurrent wheezing episodes at 12 months were significantly lower in the RSV-MONT group (P = .039).
Conclusion: Montelukast treatment reduces eosinophil degranulation and is associated with a decrease in recurrent wheezing episodes in post-RSV bronchiolitis.