Physiologic evaluation of bronchial asthma. Why objective testing is essential

Physiologic evaluation of bronchial asthma is extremely valuable. Simple objective measurements of expiratory airflow and lung volume help physicians determine disease status and monitor patient response to therapy. More elaborate measurements of pulmonary function are not commonly needed in primary care practice. The three case studies described in this article show that objective assessment of lung function is critical in effective treatment of asthma.