Childhood asthma can be a challenging condition to navigate, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, and pain. Traditionally, doctors have relied on invasive techniques like bronchoscopy or blood tests to diagnose the subtype of childhood asthma. However, these methods can be time-consuming and less accurate.
A recent study led by Dr. Juan Celedón from the University of Pittsburgh has developed a simple nasal swab test that can help physicians accurately diagnose the different subtypes of childhood asthma. The researchers identified three main subtypes based on the activity of eight specific genes: T2-high (allergic inflammation), T17-high (different type of inflammatory response), and low-low (minimal inflammation).
The study involved 459 young people with asthma, who underwent a nasal swab test to determine their subtype. While the test is not 100% accurate, it can help doctors identify whether a child has T2-high disease or not. However, more research is needed to develop better approaches for diagnosing the other two subtypes.
This breakthrough brings hope for improved treatment procedures and better therapies for childhood asthma. According to Dr. Celedón, “Accurate diagnosis of endotype is the first step toward better therapies.” The nasal swab test offers a promising solution for doctors to diagnose childhood asthma more effectively, paving the way for more personalized treatment plans.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/understanding-childhood-asthma-study-develops-a-simple-nasal-swab-test-101736242503227.html