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[Cold provocation test. A method for diagnosis of bronchial asthma]
E Bach-Gansmo1, O Skjønsberg, N P Boye
1Avdeling for lungesykdommer og allergi, Oslo.
Summary
Isocapnic hyperventilation using cold air with 5% CO2 effectively diagnoses asthma by temporarily obstructing airways. This method showed a significant drop in forced expiratory volume (FEV1) in asthmatics compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Medical Diagnostics
Context:
- Asthma diagnosis and assessment can be challenging.
- Existing methods may have limitations or side effects.
- A need exists for a quick, reliable diagnostic tool for bronchial hyperreactivity.
Purpose:
- To describe and evaluate the efficacy of isocapnic hyperventilation as a diagnostic tool for asthma.
- To assess the safety and feasibility of the isocapnic hyperventilation method.
- To compare the response of asthmatic patients and healthy controls to the procedure.
Summary:
- Isocapnic hyperventilation involves inhaling cold air (-22°C) with 5% CO2 to induce temporary airway obstruction.
- The study tested this method on 10 asthmatics and 14 controls.
- Asthmatics experienced a median 21.7% fall in forced expiratory volume (FEV1), while controls showed only a 1.4% fall.
Impact:
- This method offers a rapid and safe approach for diagnosing and assessing asthma.
- It provides a clear distinction between individuals with and without bronchial hyperreactivity.
- The technique has potential for widespread clinical application in respiratory medicine.