A Comparison of Diagnostic Testing Modalities in the Assessment of Asthma

Asthma is a widespread condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing. Diagnosing asthma involves identifying certain indicators like airflow obstruction, airway sensitivity, and inflammation. However, different international guidelines, including those from organizations such as NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), GINA (Global Initiative for Asthma), and BTS (British Thoracic Society)/SIGN (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network), have varying criteria for diagnosis. This can lead to inconsistencies in identifying patients with asthma.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different diagnostic approaches, including impulse oscillometry (IOS), in diagnosing asthma. IOS is a simple and non-invasive test that measures lung function. It has the potential to enhance the accuracy and ease of asthma diagnosis. Despite its promise, current research on the role of IOS in diagnosing asthma in adults is limited.

To address these gaps in knowledge, the study will examine the data of patients attending the severe asthma service at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth. With an "opt-out" consent process, routine outpatient lung function data will be analysed, paying special attention to the usefulness of IOS compared to other lung function indices in diagnosing asthma.

By conducting this study, the aim is to contribute valuable insights to the field of asthma diagnosis. The study findings may help refine the methodology of diagnosing asthma and potentially expand the diagnostic toolkit to include IOS. This could improve the precision and ease of managing asthma, leading to better outcomes for patients.

Inclusion criteria

• The patient will meet all the following criteria to be considered eligible for the study:

• Aged 18 years or over.
• All patients who have attended full asthma workups from November 2021 till date
• Willing and able to consent to use their data in this study (opt-out form or e-consent).
• Patients referred to the Portsmouth asthma service for diagnosis and further management of presumed asthma. Comorbidities are common in asthma, thus patients with co-existing conditions such as obesity, bronchiectasis or COPD will be included.

Exclusion criteria

• The participant may not enter the study if either of the following apply:

• Unable to comprehend the study and provide informed consent, e.g., insufficient command of English in the absence of someone who can adequately interpret.
• Patients with other primary respiratory conditions, such as ILD.