ABSTRACT
Asthma can be defined in the following ways: Pathologically, by bronchial inflammation with
prominent eosinophil infiltration. Physiologically, by bronchial hyper-reactivity
with fluctuations in lung function. Clinically, by variable cough, chest tightness, and
wheeze (1). The 2007 Guidelines for the Diagnosis and
Management of Asthma (EPR-3) define asthma as: A common chronic disorder of the airways
that is complex and characterized by variable and recurring symptoms, airflow obstruction, bronchial hyper-responsiveness, and underlying inflammation. The interaction of these features of asthma determines the clinical manifestations and severity of asthma and the response to treatment.
