Effects of subinhibitory concentrations of cefotaxime on adhesion and polymorphonuclear leukocyte function with gram-negative bacteria.

The effect of pre-incubation of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae with subinhibitory concentrations of cefotaxime on adherence and polymorphonuclear leukocyte function against these organisms was studied. Culturing the above organisms in the presence of cefotaxime (1/4 MIC) resulted in reduced adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis. Furthermore pre-incubation of all organisms with sub MICs of cefotaxime resulted in significant enhancement of polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis, phagocytosis and bactericidal activity against these organisms.