Respiratory Tract Infections and the Role of Biologically Active Polysaccharides in Their Management and Prevention

Abstract

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the most common form of infections in every age category. Recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRTIs), a specific form of RTIs, represent a typical and common problem associated with early childhood, causing high indirect and direct costs on the healthcare system. They are usually the consequence of immature immunity in children and high exposure to various respiratory pathogens. Their rational management should aim at excluding other severe chronic diseases associated with increased morbidity (e.g., primary immunodeficiency syndromes, cystic fibrosis, and ciliary dyskinesia) and at supporting maturity of the mucosal immune system. However, RRTIs can also be observed in adults (e.g., during exhausting and stressful periods, chronic inflammatory diseases, secondary immunodeficiencies, or in elite athletes) and require greater attention. Biologically active polysaccharides (e.g., β-glucans) are one of the most studied natural immunomodulators with a pluripotent mode of action and biological activity. According to many studies, they possess immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infectious activities and therefore could be suggested as an effective part of treating and preventing RTIs. Based on published studies, the application of β-glucans was proven as a possible therapeutic and preventive approach in managing and preventing recurrent respiratory tract infections in children (especially β-glucans from Pleurotus ostreatus), adults (mostly the studies with yeast-derived β-glucans), and in elite athletes (studies with β-glucans from Pleurotus ostreatus or yeast).

Efficacy of Pleuran (β-Glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) in the Management of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection

“…Its positive effect on respiratory symptoms and infections was confirmed also in patients with Crohn's disease [63] and elite athletes [64]. In a recent systematic review, we evaluated the effect of various β-glucans on the treatment and prevention of respiratory tract infections and symptoms [65]. e positive effect of pleuran on respiratory symptoms, their duration, and severity could be explained by its pluripotent biological activities.…”

The status of serum vitamin A/E and its effect on Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections in children aged 2 to 17 years in Beijing, China, based on cross-sectional study

“…RRTIs are a special form of RTIs which extremely popular in children. Delayed diagnosis or unthoroughly treatment would induce the severe complications and serious impact their healthy growth [14] . Scientists have been studying on the occurrence and development as well as risk factors of RTIs for years, wherein the status of vitamin A and vitamin E in children can be a topic in focus.…”

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Combined Aerodisperse System in the Conditions of Experimental Cervical Lymphadenite

“…Thus, inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, of course, requires correction. 7 Currently, in the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract, a complex approach firmly presupposes the use of drugs that provide combined anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, mucolytic and antimicrobic effects, which simultaneously affects the maximum number of etiologies and symptoms. At the same time, local application of medicines comes first, allowing localizing their pharmacotherapeutic effect and reducing the incidence of side effects.…”