Specific Bronchial Challenge Test Research Articles

Occupational respiratory allergy in peach crop workers.

Occupational respiratory diseases in workers of peach tree crops have been reported punctually and have been associated with sensitization to proteins present in both pollen and leaf tree. We report the study of 37 workers with respiratory symptoms related to occupational exposure to peach trees. Prick tests and specific IgE determinations were performed with extracts from leaves and branches of peach tree. Immunodetection in leaf extract was realized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis SDS-PAGE-immunoblotting with patient sera and rabbit serum anti-Pru p 3. Immunodetection inhibition was performed with rPru p 3 and pollen profilins. The clinical relevance of sensitization was demonstrated by specific bronchial challenge test (SBCT) with peach leaf extract. Most patients suffered symptoms when peach trees had leaves, specifically during thinning and harvesting fruit (rhinoconjunctivitis: 100% and asthma: 67.5%). Sensitization to leaf extract was demonstrated in 86% of patients. IgE-immunoblotting with peach leaf extract revealed in six patient sera a pair of bands of 10 and 16 kDa, and in nine a 16-kDa band. Those bands could be two isoforms of peach leaf lipid transfer proteins( LTP), so the recognition frequency of some LTP isoform by our patient sera was 42%. 33% of the sera recognized a doubled band of about 14.5 kDa and this recognition was inhibited by nPho d 2. The SBCT with peach leaf extract was positive in the asthmatic sensitized patients tested. Sensitization to peach leaves was the cause of occupational respiratory symptoms in our patients. Some patient sera revealed IgE-binding proteins matching LTP and/or profilin.

Changes in PH in exhaled breath condensate after specific bronchial challenge test in patients with chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis: a prospective study.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the specific inhalation challenge (SIC) on changes of pH values in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) in patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP).MethodsA prospective study of 85 patients with suspected HP, of whom 63 were diagnosed with HP due to exposure to avian or fungal antigens. In all cases, EBC samples were collected before and after completion of the SIC and pH values were determined.ResultsTaken as a whole, patients with HP did not present changes in EBC pH after SIC. However, considering only patients with exposure to molds, those diagnosed with HP had a significantly more acid pH post-SIC than those with another diagnosis (p = 0.011). This fact is not observed in patients exposed to bird’s antigens. A ROC curve showed that a reduction in EBC pH of 0.3 units or more after SIC in patients diagnosed with HP due to exposure to molds had a sensitivity of 30 % (CI: 12.8 to 54.3 %) and a specificity of 100 % (CI: 65.5 to 100 %).ConclusionEBC pH may be useful in interpreting SIC results in patients with HP, especially in those patients exposed to molds. Further studies are now required to test the validity of these proposals.

Accuracy of Office Spirometry Performed by Trained Primary-Care Physicians Using the MIR Spirobank Hand-Held Spirometer

Background: With the availability of compact, portable, effective microspirometers, pulmonary function tests no longer need to be performed only in specialized laboratories. However, the perception persists that small flow-sensing devices are less accurate than volume-sensing spirometers. Objectives: To study the accuracy of spirometry performed with the MIR Spirobank® and to investigate how accurately trained primary-care physicians can perform spirometry using a portable electronic spirometer. Methods: Patients with suspected occupational asthma were submitted to specific bronchial challenge tests in the pulmonary function laboratory according to published recommendations. Serial measurements were performed with the Jaeger MasterScope device (reference standard) or the Spirobank device. Data were generated from 908 parallel measurements on 34 patients. Furthermore, 16 patients with documented moderate to severe COPD were examined in a carousel set-up by four trained physicians who each used his/her own Spirobank device coupled to a laptop computer. Results: The Spirobank spirometer performed very well compared with the Jaeger MasterScope in a laboratory environment, displaying an underestimation of the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁) and FEV₁/forced vital capacity (FVC) of 2–5%. High correlations were found for the pulmonary function parameters. The highest correlation was for FEV₁ (r² = 0.949) and the lowest for the maximum expiratory flow at 25% of FVC (MEF₂₅) (r² = 0.864). Only 2% of the observed variation in the measurement results could be explained by the type of device. Conclusions: The Spirobank device seems to be appropriate for research purposes if the standardized protocol is used correctly and the acceptability criteria are respected.

Changes in Exhaled Nitric Oxide Levels After Bronchial Allergen Challenge

Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a marker of inflammation of the airways accompanying changes in the clinical condition of asthma. Allergen exposure has been associated with a delayed elevation of FeNO. The aim of this study was to assess airway inflammation with FeNO measurements during bronchial allergen challenge (BAC), and to determine the diagnostic performance of FeNO changes. Thirty-four patients with asthma and sensitization to inhalant allergens were studied. BAC with common or high-molecular-weight occupational aeroallergens was performed. FeNO was measured before and 24 h after BAC. Receiver operating characteristics curve was built to assess the sensitivity and specificity of increase in FeNO levels associated with BAC outcome. In 21 patients (61.76%) a positive asthmatic reaction (responders) was observed. A significant increase in postchallenge FeNO was observed in this group of patients compared to the group of nonresponders. A median increase (FeNO postchallenge-FeNO prechallenge) of 14.0 ppb was observed in the group of responders, whereas a -1.0 ppb change was attained in the nonresponder group (P < 0.001). The cutoff point providing maximal sensitivity and specificity for %ΔFeNO after BAC was 12%. This change in FeNO levels has a sensitivity of 0.81 and a specificity of 0.92 for predicting a positive outcome in the BAC. FeNO measurements can be used as a surrogate of airway inflammation accompanying the asthmatic reaction induced by BAC. FeNO measurements may be a useful and reliable tool in the monitoring and interpreting specific bronchial challenge test with allergens.

Bronchiale Provokationsteste

This is an updated overview of indications, contraindications, performance and interpretation of bronchial challenge tests. As speciality, the diagnostic step by step scheme comprises in addition to the clinical case history a detailed exposure (occupational) history, lung function testing, assessment of nonspecific bronchial hyperresponsiveness, allergological diagnostics (skin prick test, measurement of specific IgE antibodies), privation and reexposure test and as gold standard specific bronchial challenge tests. The last mentioned tests are of particular importance in the framework of a diagnostic backup with regard to specific therapeutic and preventive measures and insurance regulations (occupational disease?). Specific bronchial challenge tests and their variant, the workplace-related challenge test, serve to objectify or exclude the clinical relevance and the current state of a respiratory sensitization. They require a comprehensive experience of the physician performing the tests. The majority of diseases does not necessitate these tests, especially if case history, lung function testing, allergy tests, privation and reexposure test provide unanimously positive results. If allergic symptoms of conjunctiva or the upper respiratory tract are of prime importance the performance of a specific conjunctival or nasal challenge test is recommended.

Cobalt asthma -- a case series from a cobalt plant

Cobalt has been shown to induce mainly asthma, allergic contact dermatitis and hard metal disease. The data on cobalt asthma are mainly based on case reports. To characterize all the cases of occupational cobalt asthma encountered in a cobalt plant at the time of diagnosis and 6 months later. We also evaluated the incidence of cobalt asthma in different departments on the basis of data on occupational exposures. We identified cases of cobalt asthma confirmed with specific bronchial challenge tests in the Kokkola cobalt plant in Finland where exposure levels have been regularly monitored. Between 1967 and 2003, a total of 22 cases of cobalt asthma were diagnosed in the cobalt plant. On challenge tests, mostly late or dual asthmatic reactions were observed. The incidence of cobalt asthma was the highest in the departments with the highest cobalt exposure levels. All cases of cobalt asthma were encountered in departments where irritant gases were present in the ambient air in addition to cobalt. At the time of the follow-up examination 6 months later, non-specific hyperreactivity had mostly remained at the same level or increased. The incidence of cobalt asthma correlated with the exposure levels of cobalt in corresponding departments. An irritating effect of gaseous compounds may enhance the risk of cobalt asthma and even the smallest amounts of cobalt may be harmful to susceptible workers. Symptoms of asthma may continue despite the fact that occupational exposure to cobalt has ceased.

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Caused by Mucor Species in a Cork Worker

Suberosis is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by exposure to cork proteins and molds such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium frequentans. We present the case of a man with suberosis caused by Mucor species, a mold that has been rarely reported to cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Furthermore, the patient had symptoms and lung function tests indicating bronchial obstruction-an atypical presentation of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. No imaging abnormalities were observed. A diagnosis was made on the basis of bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsy findings. Mucor species was identified as the causative agent using a specific bronchial challenge test.

Neumonitis por hipersensibilidad a Mucor sp. en un trabajador de la industria del corcho

Suberosis is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by exposure to cork proteins and molds such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium frequentans. We present the case of a man with suberosis caused by Mucor species, a mold that has been rarely reported to cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Furthermore, the patient had symptoms and lung function tests indicating bronchial obstruction—an atypical presentation of hypersensitivity pneumonitis. No imaging abnormalities were observed. A diagnosis was made on the basis of bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsy findings. Mucor species was identified as the causative agent using a specific bronchial challenge test.

IgE-Mediated Occupational Asthma from Epoxy Resin

Background: Epoxy resins (ERs) are used in paints and other protective coatings, including flooring materials. Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) ERs (BADGE ERs) account for about 75% of the ERs used world-wide. ERs can cause both immediate and delayed allergic reactions, but immediate reactions are rare. Methods: Occupational asthma (OA) was diagnosed on the basis of a specific challenge test combined with the patient’s history of occupational exposure and respiratory symptoms. Results: A 39-year-old nonsmoking construction worker experienced dyspnea when laying ER-containing floors, but not in other situations. He also presented skin symptoms. IgE-mediated allergy to BADGE ER could be verified with both serum IgE antibodies and skin prick tests. The specific bronchial challenge test with BADGE ER caused an immediate asthmatic reaction. On patch testing, a positive reaction was provoked by BADGE ER. Conclusions: This is the first study on a patient exposed to BADGE ER with IgE-mediated immediate OA, based on a positive inhalation challenge test. If work-related respiratory symptoms develop when handling ERs, the possibility of OA should be recognized.

Occupational rhinitis and asthma due to crickets

Insects may cause airborne hypersensitivity reactions. However, few reports exist on specific allergy to crickets. To report a case of occupational rhinitis and bronchial asthma in a cricket farm worker. A 28-year-old woman developed rhinitis and bronchial asthma related to her job in a farm where she was exposed to crickets: Gryllus campestris, Gryllus bimaculatus, and Acheta domestica. Extracts were prepared from whole and crushed bodies and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Skin prick tests, specific IgE assays (enzyme allergosorbent test [EAST], immunoblotting, EAST inhibition assays), serial peak expiratory flow monitoring at work, and specific (A domestica) and nonspecific bronchial challenge tests were performed. Skin prick test results were positive for G campestris, G bimaculatus, and A domestica. Levels of specific IgE were 2.9, 2.4, and 5.4 kU/L, respectively. The total IgE level was 131 kU/L. Serial peak expiratory flow monitoring at work was consistent with occupational asthma. The result of a bronchial challenge test with A domestica was positive with a dual response and elicited an increase in nonspecific bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis immunoblotting revealed a similar pattern of IgE-binding bands with the 3 cricket extracts (bands of 78 and 64 kDa appeared in nonreducing conditions, whereas bands of 107 to 80, 58, and 52 kDa appeared in reducing conditions). None of these bands was detected by control sera. EAST inhibition studies showed a high degree of cross-reactivity among the 3 species. Crickets are responsible for occupational rhinitis and asthma by an IgE mechanism. Cross-reactivity among the crickets tested in our study was found.

Immunotherapy In Children - Evaluation Of Efficacy By Using A Quantitiative Allergen Specific Bronchial Challenge Test

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of allergen immunotherapy after 6 to 12 month application using a depigmented extract of D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae. A six-step bronchial allergen-challenge-test was used to evaluate efficacy.

Course of Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness in Patients With Occupational Asthma Caused by Exposure to Persulfate Salts

Persulfate salts are among the most frequently implicated causes of occupational asthma. The aim of this study was to describe the course of bronchial hyperresponsiveness and immunologic test results in patients with occupational asthma due to persulfate salts. Ten patients with occupational asthma due to persulfate salts were studied. Diagnosis was based on specific bronchial challenge tests performed at least 3 years before enrollment. An exhaustive medical and work history was taken during interviews with all patients, and all underwent spirometry and nonspecific bronchial challenge testing. Total immunoglobulin E levels were determined and skin prick tests to several persulfate salts were performed. At the time of evaluation, 7 patients had avoided workplace exposure to persulfate salts. The bronchial hyperresponsiveness of 3 of those 7 patients had improved significantly. No improvement was observed in patients who continued to be exposed. Specific skin prick tests became negative in 3 patients who were no longer exposed at the time of the follow-up evaluation. Most of the patients continued to report symptoms, although improvements were noted. One patient, however, reported worsening of symptoms in spite of avoidance of exposure. Although asthma symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness may persist for patients with occupational asthma due to persulfate salts, their condition seems to improve if they avoid exposure. This course does not seem to differ from that reported for other cases of occupational asthma.

Bronchial Challenge Test in Asthmatics Sensitized to Mites: Role of Particle Size in Bronchial Response

Although major house dust mite allergen (Der p 1) is carried mainly on large particles (>10 microm), standard bronchial challenge tests (BCT) use nebulizers that deliver smaller particles (sizes from 1 to 5 microm) and may therefore not reflect actual domestic exposure. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of particle size of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extract on bronchial response. Specific BCT were performed with different mass median aerodynamic diameters (MMAD): 1.1, 5.6, and 9.7 microm. Each of the 19 mite-sensitized patients underwent mite BCT three times, once with each nebulizer. IL-5 levels were assessed in induced sputum and blood samples. The PD(20) for Der p 1 differed substantially with particle size, with less Der p 1 (11.2 ng) needed to produce a PD(20) with the largest particles (9.7 microm), compared to 18.1 ng for the 5.6 microm particles and 142.5 ng for the 1.1 microm particles (p < 0.0001). Large particles also induced an early phase response significantly more often than small particles (100% vs. 63%). Although the late phase reaction (LPR) frequency was similar with all three particle sizes, lower mean oral corticosteroid doses were needed to treat LPR with the largest particles (23 mg), compared to the smaller particles, with 34 mg for the 5.6 microm particles and 51 mg for the 1.1 microm. The 1.1 microm particles produced a significantly greater increase in IL-5 concentrations in sputum and blood compared to the larger particles. Large particles clearly play a role in the immediate bronchial response in asthmatics sensitized to mites and, therefore, should be included in pharmacological studies in humans.

Respiratory allergy to the indoor ant ( Monomorium pharaonis) not related to sting allergy

Many studies are available on systemic reactions to ant sting, but few have described the direct role of ants in respiratory allergy. The nonstinging house ant, Monomorium pharaonis (pharaoh ant), is a highly infesting species in indoor environments. To determine whether the pharaoh ant is an indoor source of aeroallergens. Two patients with asthma who lived in homes with ant infestation were enrolled. Pharaoh ants were collected at the patients' homes, and crude extracts were prepared. Skin prick tests with ant extracts were performed. Specific IgE to pharaoh ant was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the allergenic components were determined by using immunoblot analysis. Cross-reactivity among pharaoh ant, imported fire ant, Pachycondyla chinensis ant, and other indoor allergens was evaluated by ELISA inhibition tests. Specific bronchial challenge testing was performed using pharaoh ant extracts. Both patients had positive skin test reactions to pharaoh ant extract and high levels of specific IgE antibodies to pharaoh ant. The ELISA inhibition test results demonstrated significant inhibition by pharaoh ant; however, P. chinensis, cockroach, and house dust mite showed no inhibition of the IgE binding to pharaoh ant. Two important IgE-binding components, 9.4 and 34 kDa, were identified by using immunoblot analysis. Pharaoh ant bronchial challenge test results showed typical early asthmatic reactions in 1 patient and dual asthmatic reactions in the other patient. Ants can induce IgE-mediated bronchoconstriction regardless of sting in sensitized patients. Ants should be taken into consideration as a cause of respiratory allergy in patients living in homes with visual evidence of infestation.

Non-occupational allergy caused by the Pine Processionary Caterpillar (Thaumetopoea pityocampa)

Contact with the pine processionary caterpillar induces dermatitis, usually located in exposed areas, and, less frequently, ocular lesions through a toxic-irritative mechanism. Recently, the existence of an immediate hypersensitivity mechanism has been demonstrated, mainly in occupationally exposed patients ObjectiveTo present four patients who experienced allergic reactions (urticaria-angioedema and rhinitis-asthma) after non-occupational exposure to pine processionary caterpillar Patients and methodsThe four patients underwent allergy testing through skin prick tests (SPT), specific IgE detection and SDS-PAGE immunoblotting. One patient also underwent a specific bronchial challenge test with the pine processionary antigen ResultsIn all patients, both SPT with the caterpillar extract and specific IgE were positive. Western blotting showed several IgE-binding bands with molecular mass values ranging from 18 to 107 kDa. A shift in the electrophoretic mobility of some of the relevant allergens occurred under the presence of a reductive agent (β-mercaptoethanol). The specific bronchial challenge test with pine processionary antigen performed in one of the patients also produced positive results. ConclusionsThe results of this study show an immunologic IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity mechanism in these reactions. The processionary caterpillar’s airborne urticating hairs or spicules should be considered, at least in some locations, not only as contact and occupational allergens, but also as seasonal aeroallergens

Suberosis: Clinical Study and New Etiologic Agents in a Series of Eight Patients

Penicillium frequentans is considered to be the causal agent of suberosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to cork dust inhalation. Nevertheless, other fungi can colonize cork during its storage period in humid conditions. The aims of the study were to assess the etiologic role of several fungi and cork itself in the genesis of suberosis, and to review the clinical characteristics of patients with this disease. Eight patients with suberosis were studied. Chest radiography, high-resolution chest CT, pulmonary function testing, bronchofibroscopy with BAL and transbronchial biopsy, and delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity tests were performed. Fungal and suberin (cork that is culture negative for fungi) antigens were used for serum determination of specific IgG antibodies, immediate hypersensitivity specific skin tests, and specific bronchial challenge tests. Serum specific IgG antibody determinations and specific skin tests against Aspergillus fumigatus and suberin demonstrated the capacity of both these antigenic extracts to induce an immunologic response. Positive specific bronchial challenge tests performed not only with P frequentans but also with A fumigatus, and cork itself were recorded in some patients for the first time in this disease. Dyspnea and cough were the most frequent symptoms. Clinical and functional improvement occurred after antigen avoidance. In addition to P frequentans, A fumigatus and cork dust itself may contribute to the development of suberosis.

Occupational Asthma Due to Persulfate Salts : Diagnosis and Follow-up

Persulfate salts have been identified as a cause of occupational asthma (OA). The aim of the present study was to describe the clinical characteristics, diagnostic testing results, and follow-up of eight patients with OA that was triggered by these chemical compounds. Eight patients with OA due to exposure to persulfate salts were studied. Immunologic, lung function, and specific bronchial challenge tests (SBCTs) were performed in all patients. Once their condition had been diagnosed, the patients were seen every 1, 3, and 6 months for a mean duration of 18 months. The mean time of exposure to persulfate salts up to diagnosis was 15 years (range, 3 to 27 years), and mean time that had elapsed between symptom onset and diagnosis was 38 months (range, 3 to 120 months). Three patients were smokers, six patients presented with rhinitis prior to asthma in relation to persulfate exposure, and three presented with dermatitis. The results of total IgE tests were positive in six patients, and the results of skin-prick tests for detection of persulfate salts were positive in five of these patients. The results of a SBCT was positive in the seven patients in whom it was performed. Symptoms persisted in all but one patient and required medical treatment. The results suggest that the reliable diagnosis of OA due to persulfate salts must be based on the specific challenge test until further experience has been acquired. Despite avoiding exposure, patients continued with symptoms and required treatment for the control of symptoms. Finally, a dependent IgE mechanism appears to be implicated in the pathogenesis of OA due to exposure to persulfate salts.

Provocation studies in the diagnosis of occupational asthma.

Specific and nonspecific provocation studies, although not always essential for diagnosing OA, help confirm the diagnosis and identify the offending agent. Nonspecific bronchial challenge testing is used to detect airway hyperresponsiveness and to clarify the nature of the patient's symptoms. Pharmacologic bronchoconstrictor agents (eg, methacholine, histamine) most commonly are used for the challenge, but nonisotonic aerosols, exercise and hyperventilation also can show airway hyperresponsiveness. Nonspecific challenges usually are done in the laboratory, but can be done at the workplace if emergency equipment is available. A comparison of results obtained at and away from the workplace (at least 1 week apart) may be helpful in diagnosing OA. Specific bronchial challenge testing is considered the gold standard for OA diagnosis. It can be crucial in helping physicians, employers, and employees make decisions about continued employment, compensation, career changes, and treatment. Testing can pinpoint new industrial agents that cause OA, enabling dissemination of information on its hazards to the public and within the industry. The nature of the agent determines the type of protocol that is used for testing. Agents can be in the form of dusts, powders, aerosols, vapors gases, and animal dander. Exposure can be as simple as having patients simulate their work activities, or as complicated as using special challenge chambers with controlled environments and precise delivery of agents. Performing control challenges with a component that is separate from the test agent is essential to avoid false-positive results. The timing, duration, and dosing of exposure depend on the type of reaction that has been experienced previously, the nature of the agent, and the patient's baseline airway hyperresponsiveness. Serial spirometry and observation often are done for up to 8 hours to monitor early and late reactions. SBC testing should be performed in the proper medical setting in which emergency equipment available and should be administered only by healthcare personnel who are trained and experienced in the procedures. Safety of the patient is the primary consideration.

Neumonitis por hipersensibilidad en los yeseros de la construcción (espartosis): estudio de 20 casos

Background and objectiveEspartosis is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis which frequently affects construction workers handling esparto fibres used as support material inside gypsum plaster. Exactly which agents produce this disease remains under discussion. The aims of this study were: a) to assess the possible etiologic role of the fungi colonizing esparto grass fibres and esparto itself in the genesis of this disease, and b) to describe the clinical characteristics of this disease in a large series of patients. Patients and methodTwenty patients diagnosed of hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to esparto grass exposure were studied. Mycologic cultures of the esparto grass fibre samples provided by each patient were performed. Fungi and/or esparto were used for determination of specific IgG antibodies, specific skin tests and specific bronchial challenge tests. ResultsMost frequently isolated fungi in causal esparto samples were Aspergillus sp. (60%) and Mucor sp. (47%). Specific IgG antibody determinations and/or specific bronchial challenge tests showed antigenicity not only for Aspergillus sp. but also for non-fungi-contaminated esparto grass and other fungi such as Penicillium sp. or Mucor sp. These results were helpful for establishing a new etiologic approach to the diagnosis of this disease. ConclusionsAspergillus fumigatus is recognized as a causal agent in hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to esparto grass exposure; however, other antigenic sources such as Penicillium frequentans and other fungi, as well as esparto grass fibres, also appear to play a role in the genesis of this disease.

Asma ocupacional en envasadores de alimentos

This report describes the case of a 26-year-old woman working in a fish-processing factory who developed bronchial asthma when transferred to the packing department. Various tests, including a specific bronchial challenge test, confirmed a diagnosis of occupational asthma. While polyvinyl chloride (PVC) appeared to be the causal agent in this case, the possible role of other etiological agents is also discussed. Although occupational asthma in food packers is rare, we nonetheless consider it important to recognize this type of asthma given the widespread use of PVC.