Influence of infectious factors on asthma course

Abstract

Microbial contamination of airways is of great interest due to its influence on bronchial asthma (BA) course. The aim of this study was to investigate sputum and colonic microflora in BA patients, influence of dysbiosis on BA course and to find ways for its correction. The study involved 108 BA patients (84 females, 24 males), 15 to 60 years of age, divided into 2 groups: 69 patients with good clinical effect of standard asthma therapy and 40 patients without clinical improvement after 2-wk standard therapy (torpid BA course). The patients have been observed for a year. We evaluated rate and severity of BA exacerbations, sputum and colonic flora. An original questionnaire has been developed to assess main asthma features and their influence of the patient's status. Pathogenic or conditional-pathogenic flora presented in associations with fungi in 85 % was yielded in all the patients with torpid BA course. Antimicrobial and antifungal medications allowed improved asthma control in 82 % and eradication of airway pathogens in 70 % of the patients. Colonic dysbiosis was found in 94.9 % of BA patients. Its correction resulted in better BA control. This effect have maintained for 3 to 5 months after probiotic therapy was finished. Thereafter these patients required repeated bacteriological monitoring and treatment.