Nicotine modulates molecules of the innate immune response in epithelial cells and macrophages during infection with M. tuberculosis.

Smoking increases susceptibility to becoming infected with and developing tuberculosis. Among the components of cigarette smoke, nicotine has been identified as the main immunomodulatory molecule; however, its effect on the innate immune system is unknown. In the present study, the effect of nicotine on molecules of the innate immune system was evaluated. Lung epithelial cells and macrophages were infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and/or treated with nicotine. The results show that nicotine alone decreases the expression of the Toll-like receptors (TLR)-2, TLR-4 and NOD-2 in all three cell types, as well as the production of the SP-D surfactant protein in type II pneumocytes. Moreover, it was observed that nicotine decreases the production of interleukin (IL)-6 and C-C chemokine ligand (CCL)5 during Mtb infection in epithelial cells (EpCs), whereas in macrophages derived from human monocytes (MDMs) there is a decrease in IL-8, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-10, CCL2, C-X-C chemokine ligand (CXCL)9 and CXCL10 only during infection with Mtb. Although modulation of the expression of cytokines and chemokines appears to be partially mediated by the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7, blocking this receptor found no effect on the expression of receptors and SP-D. In summary, it was found that nicotine modulates the expression of innate immunity molecules necessary for the defense against tuberculosis.

[Acute compartment syndrome as a complication of a distal forearm fracture: apropos of a case of a child]. / Syndrome aigu de la loge antérieure de l'avant-bras après fracture distale des deux os: à propos d'un cas chez un enfant.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: We describe a case of acute volar compartment syndrome of the forearm occurred after fracture of the diaphyseal-metaphyseal junction of the distal radius and ulna. MATERIAL: A 7-year-old child fell down steps and injured his left forearm. METHODS: After reduction, the patient developed clinical signs of volar forearm compartment syndrome. Measurement of intramuscular pressure by the saline injection technique confirmed the diagnosis. RESULTS: Early decompressive fasciotomy led to uneventful healing with no residual symptoms. DISCUSSION: We discuss the mechanism, diagnosis and treatment of this injury. CONCLUSION: The development of suspicious clinical signs should be supplemented by compartment pressure measurements to determine the need of surgical decompression.