Evaluation of wheezing in the nonasthmatic patient.
Wheezing is a nonspecific manifestation of airway obstruction. Even though bronchial asthma is the most common cause of wheezing, a variety of pulmonary and nonpulmonary conditions can present with this symptom. In recent years methacholine provocation challenge has simplified detection of bronchial asthma; however, establishing accurate diagnosis of other causes of wheezing is important because each condition requires specific treatment. This article describes a methodical approach to the diagnosis of wheezing in patients who are not asthmatic.
Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, One Clinic Center, Ohio 44195.
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Holden
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Mehta
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001249:Asthma / Q000175:diagnosis; D002648:Child; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests; D012135:Respiratory Sounds / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology