Review article

Lung function Diagnostics of Asthma

Davor Plavec ; Dječja bolnica Srebrnjak
Mirjana Turkalj ; Dječja bolnica Srebrnjak
Damir Erceg ; Dječja bolnica Srebrnjak

Abstract

Today asthma affects 235 million people globally, with a significant rise in incidence and significant interregional differences in prevalence (2-35%). The basic pathophysiological mechanism in asthma is airway inflammation, and intermittent obstruction of the airways and bronchial hyperresponsiveness are its direct and measurable consequences. Diagnosis is still made clinically but, based on the underlying pathophysiology, it is supplemented with lung function diagnostics. Lung function diagnostic workup should start with spirometry, followed by a reversibility test using bronchodilators (salbutamol and/or ipratropium). Negative reversibility test could be followed by a 4-week reversibility corticosteroid challenge monitored by peak flow measurements (morning and evening measurements before therapy) and symptom diary. If previous tests show negative results, methacholine challenge could be performed. Exercise challenge with spirometry measurements could be performed if the symptoms appear during exercise. Allergen challenge can be used in specific cases when other tests fail or during occupational asthma diagnostic workup.

Keywords

asthma; diagnostics; lung function; spirometry; challenge tests

Hrčak ID:

80799

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/80799

Publication date:

19.12.2011.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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