Asthma and emphysema overlap in nonsmokers

Gold et  al1 reported the reversible loss of lung elastic recoil during an acute exacerbation among nonsmoking patients with asthma, followed by a return of normal spirometry. Subsequently, from 2000 to 2004, we documented long-term loss of lung elastic recoil in nonsmoking patients with asthma with persis tent expiratory airflow limitation despite therapeutic intervention.2 However, lung computed tomography (CT) did not reveal significant lung tissue breakdown, and diffusing capacity remained normal.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Letters Source Type: research