FeNO
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a pivotal biomarker in the management of asthma, providing a window into the inflammatory processes within the airways. The FeNO test measures the concentration of nitric oxide (NO), a gas produced by the cells lining the respiratory tract, which is elevated in allergic or eosinophilic asthma.
The Significance of Nitric Oxide in Asthma Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in the body’s immune response, particularly in the airways. In individuals with asthma, NO levels rise as a response to inflammation, making FeNO testing a non-invasive method to gauge the extent of airway inflammation. This is particularly useful for allergists and pulmonologists to determine the effectiveness of inhaled corticosteroids in suppressing this inflammation.
How is FeNO Measured? The FeNO test is conducted using a portable device that captures the patient’s exhaled breath. Unlike other pulmonary function tests that require forceful exhalation, the FeNO test necessitates a slow, steady breath to accurately measure NO levels in parts per billion (PPB).
Clinical Utility of FeNO Testing FeNO testing serves as a complementary tool alongside spirometry and other lung function tests. It aids in the diagnosis of asthma by revealing the presence of eosinophilic inflammation, which is characteristic of allergic asthma. Moreover, it assists in monitoring the disease’s progression and the patient’s response to treatment. Normal FeNO levels are less than 25 ppb in adults and less than 20 ppb in children. Elevated levels suggest the need for a review of the patient’s current asthma management plan.
Conclusion In conclusion, FeNO testing is a valuable addition to the diagnostic and management arsenal for asthma. It offers a quick, simple, and patient-friendly approach to assess and monitor airway inflammation, ensuring that patients receive tailored treatment to keep their asthma under optimal control.
FeNO
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a pivotal biomarker in the management of asthma, providing a window into the inflammatory processes within the airways. The FeNO test measures the concentration of nitric oxide (NO), a gas produced by the cells lining the respiratory tract, which is elevated in allergic or eosinophilic asthma.
The Significance of Nitric Oxide in Asthma Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in the body’s immune response, particularly in the airways. In individuals with asthma, NO levels rise as a response to inflammation, making FeNO testing a non-invasive method to gauge the extent of airway inflammation. This is particularly useful for allergists and pulmonologists to determine the effectiveness of inhaled corticosteroids in suppressing this inflammation.
How is FeNO Measured? The FeNO test is conducted using a portable device that captures the patient’s exhaled breath. Unlike other pulmonary function tests that require forceful exhalation, the FeNO test necessitates a slow, steady breath to accurately measure NO levels in parts per billion (PPB).
Clinical Utility of FeNO Testing FeNO testing serves as a complementary tool alongside spirometry and other lung function tests. It aids in the diagnosis of asthma by revealing the presence of eosinophilic inflammation, which is characteristic of allergic asthma. Moreover, it assists in monitoring the disease’s progression and the patient’s response to treatment. Normal FeNO levels are less than 25 ppb in adults and less than 20 ppb in children. Elevated levels suggest the need for a review of the patient’s current asthma management plan.
Conclusion In conclusion, FeNO testing is a valuable addition to the diagnostic and management arsenal for asthma. It offers a quick, simple, and patient-friendly approach to assess and monitor airway inflammation, ensuring that patients receive tailored treatment to keep their asthma under optimal control.
