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Inflammatory mechanisms and nocturnal asthma.
1Cardiothoracic Institute, Brompton Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
The American Journal of Medicine
|July 29, 1988
Summary
Airway inflammation, potentially worsening at night due to circadian rhythms, drives bronchial hyperresponsiveness and nocturnal asthma. This review examines inflammatory factors and treatments for nighttime asthma symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology and immunology
- Circadian biology
Background:
- Nocturnal asthma is linked to airway inflammation.
- Circadian variations in hormones like epinephrine and cortisol may exacerbate nighttime inflammation.
- Bronchial hyperresponsiveness is a key factor in nocturnal asthma pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the inflammatory cells and mediators involved in asthma, focusing on nocturnal asthma.
- To discuss the role of specific treatments in managing nocturnal asthma.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research on airway inflammation, circadian rhythms, and asthma.
- Analysis of inflammatory cells and mediators implicated in nocturnal asthma.
- Discussion of therapeutic agents targeting inflammatory pathways.
Main Results:
- Airway inflammation, potentially increased at night, contributes to bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
- Circadian troughs in epinephrine and cortisol may influence nighttime asthma severity.
- Platelet-activating factor antagonists, corticosteroids, and theophylline show potential in suppressing inflammatory responses.
Conclusions:
- Airway inflammation is central to nocturnal asthma.
- Understanding inflammatory pathways is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Targeted therapies may help manage nighttime asthma symptoms by reducing inflammation.