Symptom control among asthmatics with a clinically significant smoking history: a cross-sectional study in Finland.

Background: Surprisingly little is known about asthma control among asthmatics who smoke. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate asthma symptom control according to the GINA guidelines among asthmatics with a clinically significant smoking history.

Methods: One hundred ninety asthmatics from primary care in Finland were investigated.

Prevalence of asthma-COPD overlap syndrome among primary care asthmatics with a smoking history: a cross-sectional study.

Background: The overlap between asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an important clinical phenomenon. However, the prevalence of asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS) is not known.

Aims: To investigate the prevalence of ACOS among asthmatic patients with a smoking history, and evaluate the factors predicting ACOS in this patient group.

The use of microspirometry in detecting lowered FEV1 values in current or former cigarette smokers.

Aims: COPD is an underdiagnosed disease. This study was undertaken to assess the value of microspirometry in detecting reduced FEV1 values in cigarette smokers, i.e.

Effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG on rBet v1 and rMal d1 specific IgA in the saliva of patients with birch pollen allergy.

Background: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) has demonstrated promising results in the treatment and prevention of atopic eczema.

Objective: To study the effects of LGG on the oral immune response in adolescents and adults with birch pollen allergy combined with oral allergy syndrome.

Methods: Patients received either LGG (n = 19) or a placebo (n = 19) for 5.

[Expression of interleukin-4, interferon-gamma and lymphocyte surface markers in small intestinal mucosa of adult patients with cereal allergy].

Introduction: The mechanism for adverse reactions to foods in the gastrointestinal tract are poorly understood. Previous studies of other atopic diseases and animal models suggest that lymphocytes and cytokines may be implicated in the pathogenesis of food allergy.

Aim: The authors investigated the expression of interleukin-4, interferon-gamma and other lymphocyte markers of patients with cereal allergy (wheat, rye, oats) and of controls.