Improved results of delayed-type hypersensitivity skin testing in HIV-infected patients treated with topical dinitrochlorobenzene.

BACKGROUND

Infection with HIV results in progressive deterioration of cell-mediated immunity, with consequent impairment of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin reactivity. Topical dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) is thought to increase cellular immune function in HIV infection.

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to evaluate changes in DTH skin reactivity of HIV-infected patients who were given DNCB therapy.

METHODS

DTH skin testing and lymphocyte subset analysis were performed in five HIV-infected patients before the start of DNCB treatment and after 3 months of therapy. Topical DNCB application was carried out by the patients according to a standardized protocol.

RESULTS

DNCB therapy enhanced DTH skin test responses in four of five patients. Three patients who were anergic before the start of treatment reacted to skin test antigens while using DNCB. The skin test results did not correlate with lymphocyte subset changes.

CONCLUSION

DNCB treatment improves DTH skin test responses in HIV-infected patients, indicating a positive effect on cellular immune function.