[Medium molecular weight molecules and their fractions in Astrakhan rickettsial fever].

The level of medium-weight molecules (MWM) over the course of disease and changes in the lipid share of MWM fractions at the peak of disease were studied in patients with Astrakhan rickettsial fever (ARF). The level of MWM was significantly increased in comparison with the control and MWM concentration clearly correlated with the severity of intoxication. A level higher than 600 U is an unfavorable sign of a grave course.

[The primary effect and characteristics of the course of a new tick-borne rickettsiosis--Astrakhan fever].

Clinicomorphological characteristics are given of primary reaction at the site of tick (Rhipicephalus pumilio) bite in new rickettsiosis spreading in Astrakhan Province--Astrakhan fever. The disease presented with long-term fever (body temperature 39-40 degrees C), intoxication, conjunctivitis, hepatomegaly, regional lymphadenitis, disseminated roseolous papular-hemorrhagic rash, arterial hypotension.

[Interferon efficacy in treating patients with Astrakhan fever].

Astrakhan fever is a new endemic rickettsiosis belonging to the group of tick-borne spotted fevers. Adjuvant use of interferons in basic treatment of Astrakhan fever elevates its efficacy. The maximal contribution of interferons can be reached at administration of alpha-2 and gamma-interferons in daily doses 15,000-25,000 and 1500-2500 IU/kg, respectively.

[Immunomodulating properties of leukinferon].

Tolerance and immunomodulating properties of leukinferon for injections were studied in 13 healthy volunteers. The drug was administered by inhalation and intramuscularly in a single dose of 10,000 MU twice daily for 3 days. Intramuscular injections of the drug were accompanied by a number of side effects: pyrogenicity, weakness, headache, that ceased 8-12 hrs after the drug was discontinued.

[An assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of gene-engineered human alpha 2-interferon in patients with acute viral hepatitis B].

The clinical trials of alpha 2-interferon (alpha 2-IF) (reaferon) in 412 patients with acute viral hepatitis B (AVHB) permitted the establishment of the optimal therapeutic dose and the schedule for the drug use. The drug tolerance appeared satisfactory on the whole. alpha 2-IF was found to have a beneficial effect on the clinical course of VHB.