WHY DOES DLCO INCREASE IN ASTHMA

Bronchi, the airways that conduct air to and from the lungs, are hypersensitive in asthmatics and overreact with constriction to various triggers. This constriction impedes airflow, causing difficulty in breathing.

What is DLCO?

A DLCO test measures the lungs' ability to transfer carbon monoxide (CO) from the alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs, to the bloodstream. The higher the DLCO, the better the lungs can transfer CO.

How is DLCO related to asthma?

In healthy individuals, DLCO is typically normal or slightly decreased. However, in asthmatics, DLCO can be increased. This is because asthma causes inflammation and swelling in the airways, which can lead to thickening of the airway walls and a decrease in the number of alveoli. These changes can make it more difficult for CO to pass from the alveoli to the bloodstream, resulting in an increased DLCO.

What are the causes of increased DLCO in asthma?

Several factors can contribute to increased DLCO in asthma, including:

• Inflammation: Asthma causes inflammation in the airways, which can lead to thickening of the airway walls. This thickening can make it more difficult for CO to pass from the alveoli to the bloodstream.
• Airway remodeling: Asthma can also lead to airway remodeling, which is a process in which the structure of the airways changes. This remodeling can include the thickening of the airway walls, the deposition of collagen, and the increase in the number of goblet cells, which produce mucus. These changes can all make it more difficult for CO to pass from the alveoli to the bloodstream.
• Bronchodilation: Bronchodilators are medications that open up the airways. When bronchodilators are used in asthmatics, they can improve airflow and reduce airway inflammation. This can lead to an increase in DLCO.

How is increased DLCO in asthma treated?

The treatment for increased DLCO in asthma typically involves controlling the underlying asthma. This may include using medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, and leukotriene modifiers. In some cases, oral corticosteroids may be needed to reduce inflammation.

What are the symptoms of increased DLCO in asthma?

Increased DLCO in asthma is usually not associated with any specific symptoms. However, some people may experience shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.

How is increased DLCO in asthma diagnosed?

Increased DLCO in asthma is diagnosed with a DLCO test. This test measures the lungs' ability to transfer CO from the alveoli to the bloodstream. A DLCO test can be performed in a doctor's office or hospital.

What is the prognosis for increased DLCO in asthma?

The prognosis for increased DLCO in asthma is generally good. With proper treatment, most people with asthma can live normal, active lives.

Conclusion:

Increased DLCO in asthma is a common finding that is usually not associated with any specific symptoms. However, it can be a sign of underlying asthma that needs to be treated. If you have asthma and are concerned about your DLCO, talk to your doctor.

FAQs:

1. What is the normal range for DLCO?

The normal range for DLCO varies depending on age, sex, and ethnicity. However, in general, a DLCO of less than 80% of predicted is considered abnormal.

2. What are the other causes of increased DLCO?

Other causes of increased DLCO include:

* COPD: COPD is a group of lung diseases that cause airflow obstruction.
* Pulmonary fibrosis: Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease that causes scarring of the lungs.
* Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs.
* Heart failure: Heart failure can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, which can lead to increased DLCO.

3. How is increased DLCO treated?

The treatment for increased DLCO depends on the underlying cause.

4. What are the symptoms of increased DLCO?

Increased DLCO is usually not associated with any specific symptoms. However, some people may experience shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.

5. How is increased DLCO diagnosed?

Increased DLCO is diagnosed with a DLCO test.