Comparing Mannitol and Methacholine for Asthma Diagnosis
Author Information
Author(s): Anderson Sandra D, Charlton Brett, Weiler John M, Nichols Sara, Spector Sheldon L, Pearlman David S
Primary Institution: Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Hypothesis
Mannitol and methacholine have equivalent sensitivity and specificity for identifying exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and a clinical diagnosis of asthma.
Conclusion
Mannitol and methacholine are equally effective in identifying exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and diagnosing asthma in subjects with mild symptoms and normal lung function.
Supporting Evidence
- Mannitol and methacholine showed similar sensitivity and specificity for identifying exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
- The prevalence of bronchial hyperresponsiveness was consistent across all tests.
- Both tests were well tolerated with no serious adverse events reported.
Takeaway
This study looked at two tests to see which one is better for finding out if someone has asthma. Both tests worked about the same.
Methodology
The study involved 509 participants aged 6-50, comparing the sensitivity and specificity of mannitol and methacholine in identifying exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and asthma diagnosis.
Potential Biases
The blinding of the clinicians to test results may reduce bias, but the study design could still introduce variability in responses.
Limitations
The study included subjects with mild symptoms and normal lung function, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 78% atopic individuals, with a median FEV1 of 92.5% predicted, and a low asthma score.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
CI:129,193
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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