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Aspirin-Sensitive Asthma

Recent Advances in Management

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Abstract

Aspirin (ASA)-sensitive asthma is characterised by a typical sequence of symptoms, including intense eosinophilic inflammation of nasal and bronchial tissues. It is more commonly found in non-atopic, middle-aged female asthmatic patients with chronic rhino-sinusitis and/or nasal polyps. The lysine-aspirin bronchoprovocation test has become a widely used diagnostic test. When ASA-sensitive asthma is confirmed, complete avoidance of ASA/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) is crucial in preventing life-threatening adverse reactions. The basic principle of pharmacotherapy is step-wise treatment based upon anti-inflammatory therapy. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy and anti-leukotriene agents may be indicated for treatment of the underlying disease. ASA desensitisation may reduce inflammatory mucosal disease symptoms, particularly in the nasal passage.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Paldalgu Wonchondong San-5, Suwon, Korea

    Hae-Sim Park (Associate Professor)

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Correspondence to Hae-Sim Park.

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Park, HS. Aspirin-Sensitive Asthma. BioDrugs 13, 29–33 (2000). https://doi.org/10.2165/00063030-200013010-00004

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