Non-invasive monitoring of inflammation in asthma using exhaled nitric oxide

Management of asthma is currently based on symptoms (in children, usually a second-hand report from parents) and lung function measurement. Inhaled steroids, targeted at controlling airway inflammation, are the mainstay of asthma management. Due to possible side effects they should be used at the lowest possible doses while asthma is adequately controlled. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide is a simple non-invasive method to assess inflammation in asthma, and its role in asthma management is increasing in popularity. The present review summarizes recent research on the use of FeNO in monitoring airway inflammation and optimizing asthma management. The addition of FeNO measurements to the conventional assessment of asthma control appears promising. The practicability of including this measuring method into everyday clinical practice is currently being evaluated.