Caractéristiques de l’asthme léger : épidémiologie descriptive et nature de l’inflammation bronchique

[What methods can we use to measure inflammation in the asthmatic child?]

Pulmonary function tests remain the best method to assess underlying bronchial inflammation, particularly distal airway flow. However, these tests are limited in their ability to differentiate treatment-reversible small airway obstruction from definitive remodeling related to a viral infection. The increased availability of the exhaled fraction of nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement means that this method is accessible and attractive. In spite of a number of studies, mainly in adults, its use in the management of asthma needs more investigation. Threshold values that permit optimum management are poorly defined, and strategies based on variations of FeNO do not result in reduction of the number of exacerbations, although they do permit better control of drug use and better control of inflammation. Sputum eosinophil counts are of interest for the prevention of exacerbations, although while not well validated they may be useful in some asthmatic children. Also, they require an experienced cytology laboratory. Finally, recent data on bronchial biopsies in children with difficult-to-treat asthma will be summarized.

[Characteristics of mild asthma: clinical signs and medication use. Position statement of the Mild Asthma Working Group (174)]

OBJECTIVE

To update on the state of knowledge in mild asthma (intermittent and persistent mild asthma, according to the GINA classification) review the literature, and the position statement of the French Mild Asthma Working Group.

METHODS

The French Mild Asthma Working Group (11 lung specialists, 4 paediatricians, 1 pharmacologist, and 1 general practitioner) selected, analysed, and summarised the literature on the descriptive epidemiology, physiopathology, clinical signs, and management of mild asthma. The position of the working group on the descriptive epidemiology (causal factors excluded) and the nature of the bronchial inflammation has been presented in a previous article. The present article focuses on the clinical features of mild asthma and the use of medication for it.

RESULTS

Mild asthma was more frequent, more symptomatic, and less well controlled in children than in adults. Its generally benign evolution may in some (<10%) cases be complicated by severe episodes. Patients with mild persistent asthma require controller medication every day: permanent low-dose inhaled corticosteroid monotherapy is the reference foundation treatment for persistent mild asthma.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings should help clinicians and guide them in their approach to managing this condition.