Asthma is associated with rash persistence in children with atopic dermatitis, US researchers report. (Source: MedWire News - Respiratory)

ConclusionsThe treatment of broncholithiasis should be based on chest CT and bronchoscopic findings. Intraluminal broncholiths can be removed via bronchoscopy, while surgery should be considered for symptomatic mixed or extraluminal broncholiths. (Source: Respirology)

Background: Increased airway wall thickness (AWT) and parenchymal lung destruction both contribute to airflow limitation. Advances in computed tomography (CT) post-processing imaging allow to quantify these features. The aim of this Dutch population study is to assess the relationships between AWT, lung function, emphysema and respiratory symptoms. Methods: AWT and emphysema were assessed by low-dose CT in 500 male heavy smokers, randomly selected from a lung cancer screening population. AWT was measured in each lung lobe in cross-sectionally reformatted images with an automated imaging program at locations with an internal diameter of 3.5 mm, and validated in smaller cohorts of patients. The 15th percentile method (Perc15) was used to assess the severity of emphysema. Information about re...

ConclusionsOur data suggest that it not possible to distinguish children with asthma from non‐asthmatic wheezers based on their bronchial sensitivity. The baseline Rrs has a stong effect on the bronchial reactivity in children. (Source: Respirology)