A critical review of prior research on the “pathophysiology, diagnosis, and clinical assessment of asthma” led Killeen and Skora (2012) to write their article, “Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Clinical Assessment of Asthma in the Adult” (Killeen & Skora, 2013, p. 12). The current assessment criteria for the condition as it affects adults are the main point of emphasis. The authors discuss the epidemiology and risk factors who find that there were 43 million more cases of the condition diagnosed between 2001 and 2009 and that the cost of treatment increased by 6% between 2002 and 2007. The host that causes it and the environment that acts as a trigger are just two examples of the two risk variables mentioned. While examining the pathophysiology of the illness, inflammatory cells, and mediators are described as the components that reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.
Experts have determined that the current most successful diagnosis method involves thoroughly understanding the patient’s medical history and using diagnostic tests to validate this understanding. A comprehensive physical examination is essential concerning the skin, chest, and respiratory system. Spirometry is advised for first testing by The Expert Panel Report 3 and The Global Initiative for Asthma. For the evaluation of the airway’s hyperresponsiveness, the use of methacholine or mannitol is advised. The fractional exhaled nitric oxide evaluation can be valuable when combined with other clinical exams, although research is still needed to support its use in condition treatment. The authors’ conclusion focuses on the value of early evaluation and diagnosis for more efficient treatment of the illness.