An experimental nasal swab has demonstrated the ability to differentiate between various asthma types, offering a potentially more precise diagnostic tool for the respiratory disease. Current asthma tests are limited in that they can only detect one type of the lung disease. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Pittsburgh and the Behavioral Sciences Research Institute in Puerto Rico, could lead to more tailored treatment strategies for asthma patients.
Asthma Subtypes and Current Diagnostic Limitations
Asthma, a condition affecting nearly 30 million Americans, is often categorized into two main types: T2-high asthma, characterized by inflammation driven by the immune system cell T helper 2, and T2-low asthma, which encompasses all other forms. T2-low asthma includes further subtypes, but existing tests are unable to distinguish between them. This diagnostic limitation can hinder the development of targeted therapies.
Novel Nasal Swab and RNA Sequencing
The study involved sequencing RNA from nasal swabs to effectively diagnose several asthma subtypes. Researchers tested the nasal swab on a cohort of 459 Puerto Rican and non-Hispanic Black children and teens. The results indicated that T2-low asthma was more common than T2-high asthma in this population.
Implications and Future Directions
This novel diagnostic approach could pave the way for personalized asthma management. By accurately identifying asthma subtypes, clinicians may be able to select the most appropriate treatment for each patient, potentially improving outcomes and reducing exacerbations. However, before the test can be used in physicians' offices, additional research and FDA approval are required.
