The precipitation of asthma by upper respiratory infections

A number of important mechanisms have been identified by which viruses can provoke asthma. From the data available, there does not appear to be one single mechanism available to explain virus-induced asthma. The relationship between viral URIs and asthma is complex and involves many organ systems: airway epithelium, autonomic nervous system control, and the immediate hypersensitivity system. Identifying the effects of respiratory viruses on airway function remains an important undertaking as we try to better understand and control this precipitant of asthma.