DNase (Dornase Alfa) for Cystic Fibrosis
How It Works
The body's Reference immune system Opens New Window uses Reference white blood cells Opens New Window to fight infection. These cells release chemicals that kill both bacteria and surrounding normal cells. After attacking the bacteria, the white blood cells die, adding to the thickness of the Reference mucus Opens New Window and damaging the lungs of people who have Reference cystic fibrosis Opens New Window. Dornase alfa (DNase) helps liquefy and thin mucus by clearing out Reference DNA Opens New Window from the dead white blood cells.
DNase is given through a Reference nebulizer Opens New Window and is inhaled into the lungs.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 14, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology |
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