[Might it be allergic bronchial asthma?].
The prevalence of allergy and asthma in our population is on the increase, as also, it is presumed, is the number of unrecognized cases. In the diagnostic evaluation of patients with respiratory problems, therefore, the question "might it be allergic bronchial asthma?" should be asked more frequently. The central diagnostic mainstays are the finding of reversible bronchial obstruction on pulmonary function testing, and the differential allergologic investigation. Once the diagnosis has been established, comprehensive management comprising pharmacotherapy, training and preventive measures can make it possible for the patient to enjoy a largely symptom-free life. The hope for the future is that an ever deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of asthma will enable effective preventive measures to be taken in childhood.
Behr
J
J
Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Klinikum Grosshadern der LMU München. Juergen.Behr@med.uni-muenchen.de
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001249:Asthma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D001991:Bronchitis / Q000175:diagnosis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D008176:Lung Volume Measurements; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000175:diagnosis
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents