Asthma biomarkers in sputum.

Studies have shown that induced sputum can provide information regarding the cellular and molecular processes involved in asthma and other obstructive pulmonary diseases, and can aid in the diagnosis of asthma and in distinguishing asthma from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients who present with evidence for fixed airflow obstruction. Sputum eosinophils are associated with both asthma severity and level of asthma control. By effectively treating sputum eosinophilia, the number of asthma exacerbations can be significantly reduced compared with managing asthma based on symptoms and lung function.