How to diagnose and treat work-related asthma: key messages for clinical practice from the American college of chest physicians consensus statement

Pol Arch Med Wewn. 2009 Oct;119(10):660-6.

Abstract

Work-related asthma is common among adult asthmatics, either asthma initially caused by work (occupational asthma) or pre-existing asthma worsened by work factors (work-exacerbated asthma). Appropriate management depends on both correct diagnosis and on recognition of etiology. Following a systematic literature review, the American College of Chest Physicians enpaneled a group of experts that reviewed this material, extended the literature review, and developed a "Consensus Statement on the Diagnosis, and Management of Work-Related Asthma", published in 2008. This article addresses the main practical aspects of that Consensus Statement, including clinical clues to diagnosis of work-related asthma from the medical history, exposure assessment, targeted diagnostic tests, and directed patient management. The range and importance of preventive measures are also addressed.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Asthma / diagnosis*
  • Asthma / etiology*
  • Consensus Development Conferences as Topic
  • Humans
  • Occupational Diseases*