Asthma Mechanisms

Asthma is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and variable airflow limitation. The prevalence of allergic disease and asthma has increased over time. Asthma development is driven by the complex interaction of genetic factors and multiple environmental risk factors. The identification of multiple asthma phenotypes suggests differences in the underlying pathologic mechanisms. The cellular inflammation in asthma is often associated with structural changes in the airway. Understanding the inflammatory mechanisms and early life influences of asthma contributes to the development of preventative and treatment strategies.