Abstract
on their article [1]. The relevance of the primary care physician in the treatment of asthma, and the use of controller medications in order to prevent asthma exacerbations cannot be emphasized enough. However, we do not agree with their conclusion that healthcare providers may not share a common definition of asthma exacerbations, at least, not based on the described data. In 2009, the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society presented consensus definitions for asthma exacerbations to be used in research and clinical practice [2]. In this statement, compiled by a broad clinical expert group including primary care physicians in Europe and the US, exacerbations of asthma are distinguished by severity. The definition of a severe asthma exacerbation should include at least one of the following: (a) Use of systemic corticosteroids (tablets, suspension, or injection), or an increase from a stable maintenance dose, for at least 3 days. (b) A hospitalization or ER visit because of asthma, requiring systemic corticosteroids.
Highlights
DEAR EDITOR, We congratulate Lincourt et al on their article [1]
We do not agree with their conclusion that healthcare providers may not share a common definition of asthma exacerbations, at least, not based on the described data
In 2009, the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society presented consensus definitions for asthma exacerbations to be used in research and clinical practice [2]
Summary
DEAR EDITOR, We congratulate Lincourt et al on their article [1]. The relevance of the primary care physician in the treatment of asthma, and the use of controller medications in order to prevent asthma exacerbations cannot be emphasized enough. Rik Loymans*,1, Gerben ter Riet1 and Peter J. DEAR EDITOR, We congratulate Lincourt et al on their article [1]. The relevance of the primary care physician in the treatment of asthma, and the use of controller medications in order to prevent asthma exacerbations cannot be emphasized enough.
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