Severe asthma: approach and management

Management of severe asthma remains a significant challenge. Patients with this condition do not respond adequately to inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, forcing a search for alternative strategies. The clinician's initial priority is to firmly establish the diagnosis of severe asthma, as many conditions can mimic and/or aggravate this disease. Once the diagnosis is confirmed and confounding variables addressed, a variety of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches must be considered. Continuous use of oral corticosteroids carries a risk of significant adverse effects. Leukotriene modifiers and antibodies to IgE are effective for some patients but not for many others. Alternative anti-inflammatory drugs and novel or unconventional modalities may also be used. Although severe asthma remains a clinical dilemma, a rational diagnostic and therapeutic strategy can be used to improve patient outcomes.