Fractioned exhaled nitric oxide (FE(NO)) is not a sufficiently reliable test for monitoring asthma in pregnancy.

It has been reported that fractioned exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) can be used for monitoring airway inflammation and for asthma management but conclusions drawn by different researchers are controversial. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of FENO assessment for monitoring asthma during pregnancy. We monitored 72 pregnant asthmatics aged 18-38years (Me=29 years) who underwent monthly investigations including: the level of asthma control according to GINA (Global Initiative for Asthma), the occurrence of exacerbations, ACT (Asthma Control Test), as well as FENO and spirometry measurements.

[Chlamydial infection in asthma. Macrolide treatment].

Atypical microorganism infections, including Chlamydophila pneumoniae, play an important role in asthma course. A significant influence of chlamydial infection on severity of asthma exacerbations and increase in chronic asthma symptoms has been shown. The group of medication with high antibacterial activity against atypical microorganisms are macrolides, which also have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.

Bronchial hyper-responsiveness, subepithelial fibrosis, and transforming growth factor-beta(1) expression in patients with long-standing and recently diagnosed asthma.

Introduction: Chronic inflammation in asthmatic airways leads to bronchial hyper-responsiveness (BHR) and the development of structural changes. Important features of remodeling include the formation of subepithelial fibrosis due to increased collagen deposition in the reticular basement membrane. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta might be a central mediator of tissue fibrosis and remodeling.

Circadian variations of histamine binding to lymphocytes and neutrophils and skin reactivity to histamine in atopic and healthy subjects.

Introduction: Numerous pathophysiological conditions change during 24-hour periods. Histamine, the main mediator in allergic reactions, exerts a multiplicity of pathophysiological actions through binding to specific receptors on effector cells. Nocturnal exacerbation of symptoms occurs in many atopic diseases in which histamine is an important mediator.

[Airway remodeling in asthma].

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Structural alteration of the airways and lung parenchyma, "remodeling", is a recognized feature of chronic asthma and a cause of irreversible airway obstruction. Airway and lung remodeling in asthma involves subepithelial fibrosis, but also alterations of bronchial epithelium, airway smooth muscle cells, myofibroblasts, extracellular matrix, mucous glands, blood vessels and nerves.