Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026
09:58
A Reversible, Non-invasive Method for Airway Resistance Measurements and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Sampling in Mice
Published on: April 13, 2010
Bronchial inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in well controlled asthma.
X Muñoz1, S Sanchez-Vidaurre, O Roca
1Pulmonology Service, Medicine Department, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. xmunoz@vhebron.net
Summary
Persistent airway inflammation, including eosinophilic and neutrophilic types, is common even in well-controlled asthma patients. Measuring bronchial inflammation is crucial for achieving optimal asthma control.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Limited research exists on bronchial inflammation characteristics in stable, well-controlled asthma.
- Asthma control is often assessed via symptoms and lung function, potentially overlooking underlying inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the extent and nature of airway inflammation in well-controlled asthma.
- To explore the link between airway inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 84 adult patients with well-controlled asthma (Asthma Control Questionnaire score < 0.75).
- Analysis of induced sputum for differential cell counts.
- Performance of spirometry and methacholine challenge testing.
Main Results:
- Persistent bronchial inflammation was observed in 59 patients, with 28 showing eosinophilic and 28 neutrophilic types.
- Higher eosinophil percentages correlated significantly with positive methacholine challenge results and increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
- Patients with eosinophilic inflammation exhibited greater bronchial hyperresponsiveness compared to those with neutrophilic inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Airway inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness are prevalent in patients with seemingly well-controlled asthma.
- The presence of eosinophilic or neutrophilic inflammation underscores the need for objective inflammatory markers to ensure effective asthma management.
- Assessing bronchial inflammation is essential for achieving and maintaining proper asthma control.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: β2-Adrenoceptor Agonists
Bronchodilators are critical in managing asthma, a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway constriction due to inflammation and hyper-reactivity. Specifically, bronchodilators ease this constriction by relaxing the bronchial muscles, facilitating easier breathing.
One class of bronchodilators includes β2-adrenoceptor agonists. These agents target the β2-adrenoceptors located on bronchial smooth muscle cells. By stimulating these receptors, β2-agonists induce relaxation in these...
One class of bronchodilators includes β2-adrenoceptor agonists. These agents target the β2-adrenoceptors located on bronchial smooth muscle cells. By stimulating these receptors, β2-agonists induce relaxation in these...