Bronchial AsthmaAndriy Lepyavko, MD, PhDDepartment of Internal Medicine 2

Methods of investigationObjectively: Tachypnoe with prolonged expiration, wheezing, dry ralesSputum analysis: eosinophils, Kurshman spirals (mucus from small bronchi), Sharko-Leiden crystals (enzymes of eosinophils)General blood analysis: mild leucocytosis, eosinophiliaSpyrometry: decreased FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, increased daily variability

Comparative Flow-Volume Loops at Asthma

Image: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Asthma/Asthma_WhatIs.html

Figure A: location of lungs in the body and airways in the lungs.

Figure B: a normal, non-asthmatic airway.

Figure C: an airway during asthmatic symptoms. The airway is narrowed, limiting air flow. Tightened muscles constrict air flow, as do inflamed and thickened airways. Excess mucus clogs the airway.*