Noninvasive measurement of airway inflammation using exhaled nitric oxide and induced sputum - Current status and future use

Airway inflammation is the focus of research into and therapy for asthma. T his article addresses new ways to detect and monitor airway inflammation us ing induced sputum and exhaled nitric oxide. Induced sputum can give valuab le insights into the cellular and humeral components of airway inflammation . Exhaled nitric oxide is raised in untreated asthma and falls rapidly afte r inhaled or oral corticosteroids. Together, these two new ways of monitori ng asthma promise to revolutionize the way we monitor asthma and other airw ay diseases.