Changes in maximum expiratory flow-volume curve configuration after treatment with inhaled corticosteroids. Issue 12 (December 1989)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kraan, J; van der Mark, T W; Koëter, G H
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 44:Issue 12(1989)
• Page Start: 1015
• Page End: 1021
• Publication Date: 1989-12
• Subjects: Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thx.44.12.1015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : The present study reports the changes in configuration of maximal flow-volume curves after eight weeks' treatment with inhaled corticosteroids in 14 asthmatic patients. The configuration was compared with that seen after bronchodilatation following inhalation of a single dose of ipratropium bromide. After inhaled corticosteroids the shape of the flow-volume curves was less bowed toward the volume axis, whereas the shape of the flow-volume curves after inhalation of ipratropium bromide showed no significant change. A significant correlation was observed between the decrease in blood eosinophil cell count and the straightening of the flow-volume curves, quantitatively expressed as shape factor and slope ratio. It is concluded that these changes in flow-volume curve configuration reflect a decrease in inhomogeneously distributed inflammatory airway narrowing.