Understanding asthma: Gaps in knowledge and their therapeutic implications

Journal/Book: Am J Manag Care. 2000; 6: 241 Forsgate Dr, Ste 102, Jamesburg, NJ 08831, USA. Amer Med Publishing, M W C Company. S355-S363.

Abstract: Significant aspects of asthma in the areas of disease development and progression remain poorly understood This article discusses these areas and emphasizes the need for answers. While no therapies have been shown to prevent asthma, clinicians are encouraged to monitor more carefully atopic patients for early signs of lower airway disease. After asthma develops, the determinants of progression to irreversible airway obstruction are not known. A significant number of patients, including adults, appear to outgrow their asthma, Disease severity and lack of intervention with anti-inflammatory agents seem to be important predictors of progression, but elaborate studies to elucidate the determinants of the natural history of the disease are needed to help tailor aggressiveness and type of intervention. Given the current state of knowledge that asthma progresses to irreversibility and worsening lung function is linked to airway inflammation, inhaled corticosteroids should remain the mainstay of chronic asthma treatment.

Note: Article Togias AG, Johns Hopkins Asthma & Allergy Ctr, Unit Off 7, 5501 Hopkins Bayview Circle, Baltimore,MD 21224 USA

Keyword(s): FOLLOW-UP; ALLERGIC RHINITIS; AIRWAY HYPERRESPONSIVENESS; INHALED CORTICOSTEROIDS; FLUTICASONE PROPIONATE; CHILDHOOD ASTHMA; RISK FACTOR; SERUM IGE; SALMETEROL; INFLAMMATION

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