Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Dialyzable Leukocyte Extract (DLE), also known as transfer factor, has been explored as an adjunct immunomodulatory therapy in tuberculosis (TB) treatment. The rationale for its use is based on its purported ability to enhance cell-mediated immunity, which is crucial for the control of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Several small studies and clinical trials, mostly conducted in Latin America and parts of Asia, have reported that DLE may improve immune responses, accelerate sputum conversion, and potentially improve outcomes in patients with pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB when used alongside standard anti-tubercular therapy.

However, the quality of evidence is generally low. Most studies are small, open-label, and sometimes lack rigorous controls or blinding. Reviews and meta-analyses, such as those indexed in PubMed and Cochrane, highlight the need for larger, well-designed randomized controlled trials to establish efficacy and safety. While some immunological parameters (e.g., increased IFN-γ production) have shown favorable changes with DLE supplementation, clinical endpoints like cure rates or relapse prevention are less conclusively improved.

Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary clinical data supporting DLE's use as an adjunct in TB, the evidence is not robust. DLE is not included in international TB treatment guidelines, and its use remains experimental or adjunctive in some settings. More rigorous research is needed before routine use can be recommended.

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