Chapter 81 Experimental Models of Airway Hyperresponsiveness

Airway hyperresponsiveness is an increased sensitivity of the airways to constrictor agonists. It is measured by subjects inhaling increasing concentrations of a stimulus ranging from bronchoconstrictor mediators, such as histamine and methacholine, to physical stimuli, such as cold air, or hypertonic or hypotonic solutions. The degree of airway responsiveness correlates with the severity of asthma and the treatment required to control …