Eosinophilic Asthma

What is eosinophilic asthma?

Eosinophilic asthma is a severe subtype of asthma. Levels of eosinophils are elevated in the blood, mucus, and lung tissue. Affected individuals have issues breathing, as the entirety of the respiratory tract is involved in airway obstruction. This also means that they are prone to sinus disease and nasal polyposis. 

What are the symptoms of eosinophilic asthma?

Symptoms include:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Tightness in the chest
• Difficulty breathing
• Nasal polyps
• Chronic rhinosinusitis 
• Issues with lung function
• Inflammation in the nasal mucous membrane

What causes eosinophilic asthma?

Medical professionals are unsure as to what causes this condition. A combination of environmental and genetic factors likely play a role.

How is eosinophilic asthma diagnosed?

Doctors will first perform a clinical evaluation in an effort to diagnose eosinophilic asthma. Next, they will measure the levels of eosinophils in the blood. This is typically enough for a diagnosis, but doctors may use other tests. For example, they may examine a sputum sample or perform a bronchial biopsy. 

What are the treatments for eosinophilic asthma?

The goal of treatment is to reduce eosinophil levels and control breathing. Typical asthma treatments work for this form, including inhaled or oral corticosteroids. Biologic therapies are another option, such as dupilumab, reslizumab, mepolizumab, and benralizumab. 

Where can I find out more about eosinophilic asthma?

• American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders
• NIH
• Healthline