NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease prevalent with asthma

(HealthDay)—Among people with asthma, the prevalence of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD) is about 9 percent, and asthma morbidity is increased among those with NERD, according to a review published online April 8 in Allergy.

Daniel R. Morales, M.B.Ch.B., from the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom, and colleagues conducted a systematic review to examine the prevalence of NERD among people with asthma and its correlation with asthma morbidity. Studies were identified that diagnosed NERD using blinded, placebo-controlled oral provocation challenge tests (OPCTs) or by self-reported history.

The researchers found that in adults with asthma the prevalence of NERD was 9.0 and 9.9 percent using OPCTs and self-reported history from questionnaires, respectively. In adults with NERD, the mean provocative dose of oral aspirin was 85.8 mg. Compared to people with aspirin-tolerant asthma, in people with NERD there were increased risks of uncontrolled asthma, severe asthma and asthma attacks, emergency room visits, and asthma hospitalization.

"Respiratory reactions triggered by oral aspirin in people with asthma are relatively common," the authors write. "On average, respiratory reactions were triggered by clinically relevant doses of oral aspirin. Asthma morbidity was significantly increased in people with NERD, who potentially require more intensive monitoring and follow-up."

Several authors disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry.

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