FeNO Airways - Diagnostics of Asthma Comorbidities

A FeNO (Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide) device is a valuable tool for diagnosing comorbidities associated with asthma by measuring airway inflammation at various flow rates—FeNO50, FeNO100, and FeNO200—each linked to different regions of the airways and specific comorbidities.

·       FeNO50 (50 mL/s): This flow rate primarily measures nitric oxide levels in the larger airways. Elevated FeNO50 levels indicate inflammation in these regions, which is commonly associated with allergic rhinitis and chronic bronchitis. By detecting higher FeNO50 levels, healthcare providers can identify and manage these conditions alongside asthma.

·       FeNO100 (100 mL/s): This intermediate flow rate provides a more balanced assessment of both the larger and smaller airways. FeNO100 measurements are particularly useful for detecting chronic sinusitis, which can coexist with asthma. By monitoring FeNO100 levels, clinicians can diagnose and treat sinusitis, improving overall asthma management.

·       FeNO200 (200 mL/s): This higher flow rate is sensitive to inflammation in the small airways. Elevated FeNO200 levels indicate inflammation deeper in the lungs, which is often associated with small airway diseases such as bronchiolitis and early-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Identifying increased FeNO200 levels allows for early intervention and treatment of these conditions, enhancing asthma care.

By providing a comprehensive assessment of airway inflammation at different flow rates, the FeNO device helps to identify and manage the comorbidities of asthma. This detailed analysis enables healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans more effectively, addressing not only asthma but also any coexisting conditions. Early detection and targeted treatment of these comorbidities can lead to better management of asthma, improving overall patient outcomes and quality of life.