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Kole TM, Muiser S, Kraft M, Siddiqui S, Fabbri LM, Rabe KF, Papi A, Brightling C, Singh D, van der Molen T, Nawijn MC, Kerstjens HAM, van den Berge M. Sex differences in asthma control, lung function and exacerbations: the ATLANTIS study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2024; 11:e002316. [PMID: 38901877 PMCID: PMC11191767 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2024-002316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a heterogeneous disease with a prevalence and severity that differs between male and female patients. QUESTION What are differences between male and female patients with asthma with regard to asthma control, lung function, inflammation and exacerbations? METHODS We performed a post hoc analysis in the ATLANTIS (Assessment of Small Airways Involvement in Asthma) study, an observational cohort study including patients with asthma from nine countries with a follow-up of 1 year during which patients were characterised with measures of large and small airway function, questionnaires, inflammation and imaging. We compared differences in baseline characteristics and longitudinal outcomes between male and female patients with asthma. RESULTS 773 patients were enrolled; 450 (58%) of these were female. At baseline, female patients with asthma were in higher Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) steps (p=0.042), had higher Asthma Control Questionnaire 6 (F: 0.83; M: 0.66, p<0.001) and higher airway resistance as reflected by uncorrected impulse oscillometry outcomes (ie, R5-R20: F: 0.06; M: 0.04 kPa/L/s, p=0.002). Male patients with asthma had more severe airway obstruction (forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity % predicted: F: 91.95; M: 88.33%, p<0.01) and more frequently had persistent airflow limitation (F: 27%; M: 39%, p<0.001). Blood neutrophils were significantly higher in female patients (p=0.014). With Cox regression analysis, female sex was an independent predictor for exacerbations. INTERPRETATION We demonstrate that female patients are in higher GINA steps, exhibit worse disease control, experience more exacerbations and demonstrate higher airway resistance compared with male patients. The higher exacerbation risk was independent of GINA step and blood eosinophil level. Male patients, in turn, have a higher prevalence of persistent airflow limitation and more severe airflow obstruction. These findings show sex can affect clinical phenotyping and outcomes in asthma. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02123667.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa M Kole
- Department of Pulmonology and Tuberculosis, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Susan Muiser
- Department of Pulmonology and Tuberculosis, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Monica Kraft
- Samuel Bronfman Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Salman Siddiqui
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Leonardo M Fabbri
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Klaus F Rabe
- LungenClinic Grosshansdorf GmbH, Grosshansdorf, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Christian Albrechts University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Alberto Papi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chris Brightling
- Institute for Lung Health, National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Dave Singh
- Centre for Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, The University of Manchester, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Thys van der Molen
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn C Nawijn
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Biology and Pathology, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Huib A M Kerstjens
- Department of Pulmonology and Tuberculosis, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van den Berge
- Department of Pulmonology and Tuberculosis, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Donohue PA, Kaminsky DA. The role of oscillometry in asthma. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2024; 30:268-275. [PMID: 38411171 DOI: 10.1097/mcp.0000000000001057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Oscillometry is a noninvasive pulmonary function test that has gained significant interest in the evaluation of lung disease. Currently, oscillometry is primarily a research tool, but there is a growing body of evidence supporting its clinical use. This review describes the recent work evaluating the role of oscillometry in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma. RECENT FINDINGS A large body of observational data supports the ability of oscillometry to distinguish healthy individuals from those with respiratory symptoms or lung disease. Oscillometry may not be as useful as an isolated diagnostic test in asthma, but the combination with other pulmonary function tests may improve its diagnostic ability. Oscillometry can detect peripheral airways dysfunction in asthma, which is associated with symptoms and the risk for exacerbations. To help guide future research, minimal clinically important differences for specific oscillometry variables have been developed. Oscillometry may be useful in monitoring the response to biological therapy and has potential for personalizing treatment for individual patients. Oscillometry also has potential in uncovering unique aspects of the pathophysiology of asthma in obesity. SUMMARY Oscillometry is a promising tool in the diagnosis and management of asthma. More research is needed to support its routine clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A Donohue
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| | - David A Kaminsky
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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Cottini M, Bondi B, Bagnasco D, Braido F, Passalacqua G, Licini A, Lombardi C, Berti A, Comberiati P, Landi M, Heffler E, Paoletti G. Impulse oscillometry defined small airway dysfunction in asthmatic patients with normal spirometry: Prevalence, clinical associations, and impact on asthma control. Respir Med 2023; 218:107391. [PMID: 37595673 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2023.107391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The small-airway dysfunction (SAD), detected with impulse oscillometry (IOS) methods, has been recently better characterized in patients with asthma. However, little is known about SAD in asthmatic patients with normal spirometry (NS). OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to investigate, in an unselected sample of 321 patients with physician-diagnosed asthma and NS, prevalence, clinical characterization, and impact on asthma control of IOS-defined SAD. As a secondary objective of the study, we focused on comparing the difference between IOS- and spirometry-defined SAD. METHODS Consecutive patients with a previous diagnosis of asthma but normal spirometry at the moment of the enrollment were stratified by the presence of IOS-defined SAD (difference in resistance at 5 Hz and at 20 Hz [R5-R20] greater than 0.07 kPa x s x L-1). We have also assessed the presence of SAD defined by spirometry, according to FEF 25-75 < 65% of the predicted. Clinical and laboratory features were collected, and univariable and multivariable analyses were used to analyze cross-sectional associations between clinical variables and outcomes (SAD). RESULTS IOS-defined SAD was present in 54.1% of the cohort. In contrast, spirometry-defined SAD was present in only 10% of patients. Subjects with IOS-defined SAD showed less well-controlled asthma and a higher mean inhaled corticosteroid dosage use compared with subjects without SAD (both P < .001). Overweight (odds ratio [OR], 1.14; 95% CI, 1.05-1.23), exacerbation history (OR, 3.06; 95% CI, 1.34-6.97), asthma-related night awakenings (OR, 6.88; 95% CI, 2.13-22.23), exercise-induced asthma symptoms (OR, 33.5; 95% CI, 9.51-117.8), and controlled asthma (OR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.06-0.84) were independently associated with SAD. CONCLUSIONS Asthmatic patients with IOS-defined SAD showed less well-controlled asthma, more severe exacerbations and higher mean inhaled corticosteroid dosage. We confirmed exercise-induced asthma, asthma-related night awakenings, exacerbation history, and overweight as independently associated with SAD, while showing well-controlled asthma as inversely associated. SAD may be overlooked by standard spirometry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benedetta Bondi
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.
| | - Diego Bagnasco
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Fulvio Braido
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Passalacqua
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Anita Licini
- Allergy and Pneumology Outpatient Clinic, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Carlo Lombardi
- Departmental Unit of Allergology, Immunology & Pulmonary Diseases, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alvise Berti
- Center for Medical Sciences (CISMed) and Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Italy, and Santa Chiara Regional Hospital, APSS, Trento, Italy
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Landi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, SSDDU Allergologia e Immunologia Clinica, Università degli Studi di Torino, AO Ordine Mauriziano Umberto I, Torino, Italy
| | - Enrico Heffler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy; Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Paoletti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy; Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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Kostorz-Nosal S, Jastrzębski D, Błach A, Skoczyński S. Window of opportunity for respiratory oscillometry: A review of recent research. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2023; 316:104135. [PMID: 37536553 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2023.104135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Oscillometry has been around for almost 70 years, but there are still many unknowns. The test is performed during tidal breathing and is therefore free from patient-dependent factors that could influence the results. The Forced Oscillation Technique (FOT), which requires minimal patient cooperation, is gaining ground, particularly with elderly patients and children. In pulmonology, it is a valuable tool for assessing obstructive conditions (with a distinction between central and peripheral obstruction) and restrictive disorders (intrapulmonary and extrapulmonary). Its sensitivity allows the assessment of bronchodilator and bronchoconstrictor responses. Different lung diseases show different patterns of changes in FOT, especially studied in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Because of these differences, many studies have analysed the usefulness of this technique in different areas of medicine. In this paper, the authors would like to present the basics of oscillometry with the areas of its most recent clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Kostorz-Nosal
- Department of Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Jastrzębski
- Department of Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Anna Błach
- Department of Cardiology and Structural Heart Diseases, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Skoczyński
- Department of Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland
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Lombardi C, Berti A, Cottini M, Roca E, Ventura L. Using the 6-min walk test to assess the clinical response to mepolizumab and conventional therapy in severe eosinophilic asthma. ERJ Open Res 2023; 9:00114-2023. [PMID: 37868145 PMCID: PMC10588793 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00114-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Severe asthma limits exercise to avoid respiratory symptoms. The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of the 6-min walk test (6MWT) in severe asthma. Methods Consecutive patients with severe eosinophilic asthma were enrolled. A 6MWT was performed before and after 12 months. Inhaled therapy dose, oral corticosteroids dose, pulmonary function tests, eosinophil blood count, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), Asthma Control Test (ACT) score and responses to the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) were also recorded. Results Of the 22 patients enrolled, 13 were treated with mepolizumab 100 mg every 4 weeks in addition to conventional therapy and nine with conventional therapy only. The majority of the patients were treated with high-dose inhaled corticosteroids/long-acting β-agonists/long-acting muscarinic receptor antagonists, while approximately half were on continuous oral corticosteroids. After 12 months, the mepolizumab group only showed a significant improvement in pulmonary function tests (percentage forced expiratory volume in 1 s and percentage forced expiratory flow at 25-75% forced vital capacity (FEF25-75%), both p<0.001; percentage forced vital capacity, p<0.01) and clinical laboratory parameters (eosinophil count, FeNO measured at a flow rate of 50 mL·s-1, ACT and AQLQ, p<0.001). No significant changes in the proportion of patients using continuous oral corticosteroids and high-dose inhaled corticosteroids/long-acting β-agonists/long-acting muscarinic receptor antagonists were observed in either group (p>0.05). By paired comparisons, statistically significant improvements of the mean 6-min walk distance (6MWD) were observed in the mepolizumab (p<0.001) and conventional therapy (p<0.01) groups, while no improvement was seen in dyspnoea Borg scale, heart rate, percentage oxygen saturation or systolic and diastolic blood pressure. 6MWD showed significant direct correlations with ACT (r=0.5998, p<0.001), AQLQ (r=0.3978, p=0.009) and FEF25-75% (r=0.3589, p=0.017). Conclusions The 6MWT could complement severe asthma assessment and be relevant in evaluating the objective response to treatment, including biological therapies like mepolizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Lombardi
- Departmental Unit of Allergology, Immunology and Pulmonary Diseases, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alvise Berti
- Center for Medical Sciences (CISMed), Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- Santa Chiara Hospital, APSS Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Elena Roca
- Departmental Unit of Allergology, Immunology and Pulmonary Diseases, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
| | - Laura Ventura
- Allergy and Pneumology Outpatient Clinic, Bergamo, Italy
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Menzella F, Antonicelli L, Cottini M, Imeri G, Corsi L, Di Marco F. Oscillometry in severe asthma: the state of the art and future perspectives. Expert Rev Respir Med 2023; 17:563-575. [PMID: 37452692 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2023.2237872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Approximately 3-10% of people with asthma have severe asthma (SA). Patients with SA have greater impairment in daily life and much higher costs. Even if asthma affects the entire bronchial tree, small airways have been recognized as the major site of airflow limitation. There are several tools for studying small airway dysfunction (SAD), but certainly the most interesting is oscillometry. Despite several studies, the clinical usefulness of oscillometry in asthma is still in question. This paper aims to provide evidence supporting the use of oscillometry to improve the management of SA in clinical practice. AREAS COVERED In the ATLANTIS study, SAD was strongly evident across all severity. Various tools are available for evaluation of SAD, and certainly an integrated use of these can provide complete and detailed information. However, the most suitable method is oscillometry, implemented for clinical routine by using either small pressure impulses or small pressure sinusoidal waves. EXPERT OPINION Oscillometry, despite its different technological implementations is the best tool for determining the impact of SAD on asthma and its control. Oscillometry will also be increasingly useful for choosing the appropriate drug, and there is ample room for a more widespread diffusion in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gianluca Imeri
- Respiratory Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Corsi
- Pulmonology Unit, S. Valentino Hospital, Treviso, Italy
| | - Fabiano Di Marco
- Respiratory Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Bergamo, Italy
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Pisi R, Aiello M, Frizzelli A, Feci D, Aredano I, Manari G, Calzetta L, Pelà G, Chetta A. Detection of Small Airway Dysfunction in Asthmatic Patients by Spirometry and Impulse Oscillometry System. Respiration 2023; 102:487-494. [PMID: 37393905 PMCID: PMC10568607 DOI: 10.1159/000531205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no gold standard in diagnosing SAD. Indicators of SAD are considered: (a) a value <65% of predicted values of two of three measures, FEF25-75, FEF50 e FEF75 (FEF+); (b) a value of FEV3/FEV6 < LLN (FEV3/FEV6+); (c) an IOS value of R5-R20 >0.07 kPa·s·L-1 (R5-R20+). AIM AND OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to ascertain, in asthmatic patients, whether spirometry and IOS indicators agree in detecting SAD. We also assessed the relationship between spirometry and IOS indicators and clinical features of asthma. METHODS We prospectively recruited adult asthmatic patients. Anthropometric and clinical characteristics were recorded. All patients performed spirometry and IOS tests. RESULTS We enrolled 301 asthmatic patients (179 females; mean age 50 ± 16 years) with normal to moderately severe degree of airway obstruction; 91% were non-smokers, 74% were atopic, 28% had an exacerbation in the previous year, and 18% had a poor asthma control by ACT. SAD was diagnosed in 62% of patients through FEF+, in 40% through FEV3/FEV6+ and in 41% through R5-R20+. κ values were 0.49 between FEF+ and FEV3/FEV6+, 0.20 between FEF+ and R5-R20+, 0.07 between FEV3/FEV6+ and R5-R20+. R5-R20+ but not FEF+ and FEV3/FEV6+ was significantly associated with ACT score (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that in mild to moderately severe asthmatic patients, spirometry and IOS indicators are complementary in diagnosing SAD. Additionally, IOS indicator, but not spirometry ones, was related to asthma control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Pisi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marina Aiello
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Annalisa Frizzelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Davide Feci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Aredano
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Gaia Manari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanna Pelà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Department of General and Specialistic Medicine, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alfredo Chetta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Kotsiou OS, Tourlakopoulos K, Kontopoulou L, Mavrovounis G, Pantazopoulos I, Kirgou P, Zarogiannis SG, Daniil Z, Gourgoulianis KI. D-ROMs and PAT Tests Reveal a High Level of Oxidative Stress in Patients with Severe Well-Controlled Asthma, and D-ROMs Are Positively Correlated with R20 Values That Indicate Approximate Central Airway Resistance. J Pers Med 2023; 13:943. [PMID: 37373932 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13060943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The derivatives-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and plasma antioxidant capacity (PAT) tests are oxidative indexes. Severe asthma has been related to oxidative stress. We aimed to investigate d-ROMs and PAT values in severely controlled asthmatics and the correlation of these values with lung function. METHODS Blood samples were collected from severely controlled asthmatics and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 min. The supernatant was collected. The assays were performed within three hours of collection. The fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), impulse oscillometry (IOS), and spirometry were determined. Symptom control was recorded using the asthma control test (ACT). RESULTS Approximately 40 patients with severe controlled asthma (75%: women), mean age of 62 ± 12 years, were recruited. Approximately 5% had obstructive spirometry. The IOS revealed airway abnormalities even though the spirometric results were within the normal range, with it being more sensitive than spirometry. The D-ROMs and PAT test values were higher than normal, indicating oxidative stress in severe asthmatics with controlled asthma. D-ROMs were positively correlated with R20 values, indicating central airway resistance. CONCLUSIONS The IOS technique revealed an otherwise hidden airway obstruction with spirometry. The D-ROMs and PAT tests revealed a high level of oxidative stress in severe controlled asthmatics. D-ROMs correlate with R20, indicating central airway resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourania S Kotsiou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41100 Biopolis, Greece
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Thessaly, 45550 Gaiopolis, Greece
| | | | | | - Georgios Mavrovounis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41100 Biopolis, Greece
| | - Ioannis Pantazopoulos
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41100 Biopolis, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Kirgou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41100 Biopolis, Greece
| | | | - Zoe Daniil
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41100 Biopolis, Greece
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Cottini M, Lombardi C, Comberiati P, Landi M, Berti A, Ventura L. Small airway dysfunction in asthmatic patients treated with as-needed SABA monotherapy: A perfect storm. Respir Med 2023; 209:107154. [PMID: 36796546 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2023.107154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short-acting beta agonist (SABA)-only treatment is associated with poor asthma control and adverse clinical outcomes. The importance of small airway dysfunction (SAD) is increasingly recognized in asthma, but less is known in patients using SABA-only therapy. We aimed to investigate the impact of SAD on asthma control in an unselected cohort of 60 adults with physician-diagnosed intermittent asthma treated with as-needed SABA monotherapy. METHODS All patients underwent standard spirometry and impulse oscillometry (IOS) at the first visit and were stratified by the presence of SAD defined by IOS (fall in resistance 5-20 Hz [R5-R20]>0.07 kPa × s*L-1). Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to analyze cross-sectional relationships between clinical variables and SAD. RESULTS SAD was present in 73% of the cohort. Compared with patients without SAD, adults with SAD had a higher number of severe exacerbations (65.9% versus 25.0%, p < 0.05), higher use of annual SABA canisters (median (IQR), 3 (1.75-3) versus 1 (1-2), p < 0.001), and significantly less well-controlled asthma (11.7% versus 75.0%, p < 0.001). Spirometry parameters were similar between patients with IOS-defined SAD and those without SAD. The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that exercise-induced bronchoconstriction symptoms (EIB, odds ratio [OR] 31.18; 95%CI:4.85-365.00) and night awakenings due to asthma (OR 30.30; 95%CI:2.61-1141.00) were independent predictors of SAD, with a high predictive power of the model incorporating these baseline predictors (AUC 0.92). CONCLUSIONS EIB and nocturnal symptoms are strong predictors of SAD in asthmatic patients using as-needed SABA-monotherapy, helping to distinguish subjects with SAD among patients with asthma when IOS cannot be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlo Lombardi
- Departmental Unit of Allergology, Immunology & Pulmonary Diseases, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Landi
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy; Pediatric National Healthcare System, Turin, Italy
| | - Alvise Berti
- Centre for Medical Sciences (CISMED), Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, and Santa Chiara Hospital, APSS Trento, Italy.
| | - Laura Ventura
- Department of Statistics, University of Padova, Italy
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Lombardi C, Cottini M, Berti A, Comberiati P. Monoclonal antibodies targeting small airways: a new perspective for biological therapies in severe asthma. Asthma Res Pract 2022; 8:6. [PMID: 36253809 PMCID: PMC9575249 DOI: 10.1186/s40733-022-00088-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Small airway dysfunction (SAD) in asthma is characterized by the inflammation and narrowing of airways with less of 2 mm in diameter between generations 8 and 23 of the bronchial tree. It is now widely accepted that small airways are involved in the pathogenesis of asthma and are a major determinant of airflow obstruction in this disease. In recent years, specialized tests have been developed, such as Impulse Oscillometry (IOS) and Multiple Breath Nitrogen Washout (MBNW) tests, which have been deemed more accurate in detecting SAD than conventional spirometry. Clinical studies show that SAD is associated with more severe bronchial hyperresponsiveness, worse asthma control, and a higher risk of exacerbations. Recent data from a large cohort study showed that the prevalence of SAD in asthma patients increases with asthma severity. Overall, SAD seems to represent a treatable trait, which makes it appealing for asthma control optimization and exacerbation rate reduction, especially in moderate-to-severe asthma. Biologic agents are now available for the treatment of different severe asthma phenotypes and endotypes. However, the effect of these therapies on SAD remains poorly characterized. Literature showing that biologic agents can also favorably improve small airway function is accumulating. In particular, anti-IL5 agents (mepolizumab and benralizumab) seems to have a greater impact on SAD as compared to other biological agents, but direct comparisons in prospective randomized controlled trials are lacking. In this mini-review article, we address the latest evidence on the effect of biological therapies on SAD in patients with severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Lombardi
- Departmental Unit of Pneumology & Allergology, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Via Bissolati, 57, 25100, Brescia, Italy. .,Poliambulanza Hospital, Via Leonida Bissolati, 57, 25124, Brescia, Italy.
| | | | - Alvise Berti
- Ospedale Santa Chiara and Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy. .,Santra Chiara Hospital, Largo Medaglie D'Oro, 9, 38121, Trento, Italy.
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Chetta A, Facciolongo N, Franco C, Franzini L, Piraino A, Rossi C. Impulse Oscillometry, Small Airways Disease, and Extra-Fine Formulations in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Windows for New Opportunities. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2022; 18:965-979. [PMID: 36212050 PMCID: PMC9533783 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s369876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the perspective of management of respiratory disease has been gradually changing in light of the increasing evidence of small airways as the major site of airflow obstruction contributing to the development of both COPD and asthma already in early stages of disease. First and foremost, the evidence is redefining disease severity, identifying small airways disease phenotypes and early signs of disease, and revising prevalence and overall epidemiological data as well. Much effort has been put toward the instrumental assessment of small airways’ involvement and early detection. Several clinical trials have evaluated the advantage of extra-fine formulations which can best target the small airways in uncontrolled asthma and severe COPD. Here, we briefly present a practical overview of the role of the small airways in disease, the most appropriate diagnostic methods for quantifying their impairment, and provide some insight into the costs of respiratory management in Italy, especially in sub-optimally controlled disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Chetta
- Clinica Pneumologica, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
- Correspondence: Alfredo Chetta, Tel +39 0521.703478, Email
| | | | - Cosimo Franco
- UOC Pneumologia, Ospedale Guglielmo da Saliceto, Piacenza, Italy
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Sesé L, Mahay G, Barnig C, Guibert N, Leroy S, Guilleminault L. [Markers of severity and predictors of response to treatment in severe asthma]. Rev Mal Respir 2022; 39:740-757. [PMID: 36115752 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a multifactorial disease with complex pathophysiology. Knowledge of its immunopathology and inflammatory mechanisms is progressing and has led to the development over recent years of increasingly targeted therapeutic strategies. The objective of this review is to pinpoint the different predictive markers of asthma severity and therapeutic response. Obesity, nasal polyposis, gastroesophageal reflux disease and intolerance to aspirin have all been considered as clinical markers associated with asthma severity, as have functional markers such as bronchial obstruction, low FEV1, small daily variations in FEV1, and high FeNO. While sinonasal polyposis and allergic comorbidities are associated with better response to omalizumab, nasal polyposis or long-term systemic steroid use are associated with better response to antibodies targeting the IL5 pathway. Elevated total IgE concentrations and eosinophil counts are classic biological markers regularly found in severe asthma. Blood eosinophils are predictive biomarkers of response to anti-IgE, anti-IL5, anti-IL5R and anti-IL4R biotherapies. Dupilumab is particularly effective in a subgroup of patients with marked type 2 inflammation (long-term systemic corticosteroid therapy, eosinophilia≥150/μl or FENO>20 ppb). Chest imaging may help to identify severe patients by seeking out bronchial wall thickening and bronchial dilation. Study of the patient's environment is crucial insofar as exposure to tobacco, dust mites and molds, as well as outdoor and indoor air pollutants (cleaning products), can trigger asthma exacerbation. Wider and more systematic use of markers of severity or response to treatment could foster increasingly targeted and tailored approaches to severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Sesé
- AP-HP, service de physiologie, hôpital Avicenne, Bobigny, France
| | - G Mahay
- Service de pneumologie, oncologie thoracique et soins intensifs respiratoires, CHU Rouen, Rouen, France
| | - C Barnig
- INSERM, EFS BFC, LabEx LipSTIC, UMR1098, Interactions Hôte-Greffon-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France; Service de pneumologie, oncologie thoracique et allergologie respiratoire, CHRU Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - N Guibert
- AP-HP, service de physiologie, hôpital Avicenne, Bobigny, France
| | - S Leroy
- Université Côte d'Azur, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, CNRS UMR 7275-FHU OncoAge, service de pneumologie oncologie thoracique et soins intensifs respiratoires, CHU de Nice, hôpital Pasteur, Nice, France
| | - L Guilleminault
- AP-HP, service de physiologie, hôpital Avicenne, Bobigny, France; Institut Toulousain des maladies infectieuses et inflammatoires (Infinity) inserm UMR1291-CNRS UMR5051-université Toulouse III, CRISALIS F-CRIN, Toulouse, France.
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13
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Cazzola M, Braido F, Calzetta L, Matera MG, Piraino A, Rogliani P, Scichilone N. The 5T approach in asthma: Triple Therapy Targeting Treatable Traits. Respir Med 2022; 200:106915. [PMID: 35753188 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2022.106915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Using a therapeutic strategy that is free from traditional diagnostic labels and based on the identification of "treatable traits" (TTs), which are influential in clinical presentations in each patient, might overcome the difficulties in identifying and validating asthma phenotypes and endotypes. Growing evidence is documenting the importance of using the triple therapy with ICS, LABA, and LAMAs in a single inhaler (SITT) in cases of asthma not controlled by ICS/LABA and in the prevention of exacerbations. The identification of TTs may overcome the possibility of using SITT without considering the specific needs of the patient. In effect, it allows a treatment strategy that is closer to the precision strategy now widely advocated for the management of patients with asthma. There are different TTs in asthma that may benefit from treatment with SITT, regardless of guideline recommendations. The airflow limitation and small airway dysfunction are key TTs that are present in different phenotypes/endotypes, do not depend on the degree of T2 inflammation, and respond better than other treatments to SITT. We suggest that the 5T (Triple Therapy Targeting Treatable Traits) approach should be applied to the full spectrum of asthma, not just severe asthma, and, consequently, SITT should begin earlier than currently recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
| | - Fulvio Braido
- Department of Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Unit of Respiratory Diseases and Lung Function, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessio Piraino
- Respiratory Area, Medical Affairs, Chiesi Italia, Parma, Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Scichilone
- Division of Respiratory Diseases, Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Cottini M, Lombardi C, Passalacqua G, Bagnasco D, Berti A, Comberiati P, Imeri G, Landi M, Heffler E. Small Airways: The “Silent Zone” of 2021 GINA Report? Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:884679. [PMID: 35677830 PMCID: PMC9168121 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.884679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic disease, affecting approximately 350 million people worldwide. Inflammation and remodeling in asthma involve the large airways, and it is now widely accepted that the small airways (those with an internal diameter <2 mm) are involved in the pathogenesis of asthma and are the major determinant of airflow obstruction in this disease. From a clinical perspective, small airways dysfunction (SAD) is associated with more severe bronchial hyperresponsiveness, worse asthma control and more exacerbations. Unlike the GOLD guidelines which, in their definition, identify COPD as a disease of the small airways, the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines do not refer to the prevalence and role of SAD in asthmatic patients. This decision seems surprising, given the growing body of compelling evidence accumulating pointing out the high prevalence of SAD in asthmatic patients and the importance of SAD in poor asthma control. Furthermore, and remarkably, SAD appears to possess the characteristics of a treatable pulmonary trait, making it certainly appealing for asthma control optimization and exacerbation rate reduction. In this mini-review article, we address the most recent evidence on the role of SAD on asthma control and critically review the possible inclusion of SAD among treatable pulmonary traits in international guidelines on asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Cottini
- Allergy and Pneumology Outpatient Clinic, Bergamo, Italy
- Marcello Cottini
| | - Carlo Lombardi
- Departmental Unit of Allergology, Immunology & Pulmonary Diseases, Fondazione Poliambulanza, Brescia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Carlo Lombardi
| | - Giovanni Passalacqua
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Diego Bagnasco
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Alvise Berti
- Ospedale Santa Chiara and Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), Thoracic Disease Research, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Section of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Imeri
- Respiratory Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, University of Milan-Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Massimo Landi
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
- Pediatric National Healthcare System, Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Heffler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy - IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital - Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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Small Airway Dysfunction Links Asthma Severity with Physical Activity and Symptom Control. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2021; 9:3359-3368.e1. [PMID: 33930619 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2021.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the role of small airway dysfunction (SAD) and its complex relation with asthma control and physical activity (PA). OBJECTIVE To investigate the interrelations among SAD, risk factors for asthma severity, symptom control, and PA. METHODS We assessed SAD by impulse oscillometry and other sophisticated lung function measures including inert gas washout in adults with asthma (mild to moderate, n = 140; severe, n = 128) and 69 healthy controls from the All Age Asthma Cohort. We evaluated SAD prevalence and its interrelation with risk factors for asthma severity (older age, obesity, and smoking), type 2 inflammation (sputum and blood eosinophils, fractional exhaled nitric oxide), systemic inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), asthma control (AC), and PA (accelerometer for 1 week). We applied a clinical model based on structural equation modeling that integrated causal pathways among these clinical variables. RESULTS The prevalence of SAD ranged from 75% to 90% in patients with severe asthma and from 53% to 64% in mild to moderate asthma. Severe SAD was associated with poor AC and low PA. Structural equation modeling indicated that age, obesity, obesity-related systemic inflammation, T2 inflammation, and smoking are independent predictors of SAD. Small airway dysfunction was the main determinant factor of AC, which in turn affected PA. Obesity affected AC directly and through its contribution to SAD and low PA. In addition, PA had bidirectional associations with obesity, SAD, and AC. Structural equation modeling also indicated interrelations among distal airflow limitation, air trapping, and ventilation heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS Small airway dysfunction is a highly prevalent key feature of asthma that interrelates a spectrum of distal lung function abnormalities with risk factors for asthma severity, asthma control, and physical activity.
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