How can sputum sample analysis aid in diagnosing eosinophilic asthma?
Answer
Sputum sample analysis can aid in diagnosing eosinophilic asthma by revealing blood-tinged sputum containing eosinophilic crystals. The presence of these crystals is indicative of the eosinophil-driven nature of the condition and can be observed under a microscope. This additional information helps confirm the presence of eosinophilic asthma in a patient with asthma. If a patient's eosinophil count exceeds 1,500 microliters upon blood analysis, it may raise concerns about other eosinophilic pulmonary conditions, such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Healthcare professionals should consider this possibility and take it into account when diagnosing and managing the patient's condition.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course,Objective Measures of Asthma, presented by Kevin Collins, PhD, RRT, RPFT, AE-C.
Kevin Collins, PhD, RRT, RPFT, AE-C
Dr. Collins is the father of four, one son with asthma. In addition to being a certified asthma educator, he is an associate professor of respiratory care at Texas State University. His research focuses on asthma education on the college campus, including training healthcare providers at student health centers in asthma care.
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