Non-invasive markers in evaluating inflammation and remodeling in lung diseases. 1. Induced sputum
Bumbăcea, D.ş
Pneumologia 53(4): 182-188
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 2067-2993 PMID: 16106726 Document Number: 577650
Development of non-invasive markers of airway inflammation and remodelling is needed for diagnosis and monitoring of respiratory diseases, like asthma, COPD and interstitial lung diseases. This review is the first in a series evaluating the actual status of this process and is dedicated to induced sputum. We describe the methods of sputum induction, with special reference to efficiency and safety, especially in asthma patient. Methods of sputum processing are reviewed according to the end result: differential cell count, soluble markers assays, and also immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridisation. Finally we review the use of induced sputum in the evaluation of inflammation and remodelling in asthma and COPD and also in the evaluation of inflammation in chronic cough and interstitial lung diseases.