Bronchial challenge test
A test for airway hyperresponsiveness using inhaled bronchoconstrictors.
A bronchial challenge test evaluates airway hyperresponsiveness to assist in diagnosing asthma. The patient inhales nebulized methacholine or histamine, which provoke bronchoconstriction via different receptors. Spirometry quantifies the narrowing. A reversibility test, using a bronchodilator, may help distinguish asthma from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. False positives and negatives are possible, and asthma may be temporary due to noxious stimuli or exercise.
Quick Facts
- Contraindications
- Severe airway obstruction, aortic aneurysm
- Drugs used
- Methacholine, histamine
- Receptors involved
- M3 receptor (methacholine), H1 receptor (histamine)
- Alternative names
- Methacholine challenge test, histamine challenge test
Facts from the source article.
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