Abstract: AIM: To observe the clinical efficacy of azithromycin on bronchial asthma, and the effects on lung function, serum connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). METHODS: 48 cases of asthma were randomly divided into conventional treatment group (group A), azithromycin in treatment group (group B). Two groups were inhaled budesonide, group B was given azithromycin additional, 18 healthy people were distributed to control group (group C).The level of serum CTGF was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).The changes of asthma control test(ACT) scores,lung function, serum CTGF were evaluated in each group patients before and after treatment.RESULTS: After 8 weeks treatment, the levels of ACT scores, lung function were significantly improved than before treatment, but the serum CTGF concentrations were decreased in group A and B(all P<0.05). After 8 weeks treatment,compared with group A,the levels of ACT scores,lung function were significantly increased in group B, but the CTGF serum concentration was decreased(all P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Azithromycin can inhibit airway remodeling, improve lung function and control asthma,the reason may be related to inhibiting the expression of CTGF.

Key words: Azithromycin, Asthma, Lung function, Connective tissue growth factor, Airway remodeling