Bronchodilator response as a marker of poor asthma control.

Background: Asthma guidelines emphasise the importance of monitoring disease control in managing asthma.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between lung function, including bronchodilator response in terms of improving in FEV1 after administration of salbutamol, and asthma control.

Methods: 246 patients with known asthma and in regular chronic treatment according to international guidelines were consecutively enrolled in a 12 month-period.

High prevalence of Anisakis simplex hypersensitivity and allergy in Sicily, Italy.

Background: Anisakis simplex can elicit allergic reactions when ingested in raw or marinated fish. The prevalence of A simplex hypersensitivity and allergy in Sicily (Italy), an area where the consumption of raw or marinated fish is very common, has not been investigated thus far.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of A simplex sensitization and its clinical relevance in a large group of unselected patients.