A randomised controlled trial of small particle inhaled steroids in refractory eosinophilic asthma (SPIRA)

This randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study was undertaken to evaluate whether an extra-fine preparation of inhaled ciclesonide could maintain the beneficial effects of a 2-week course of oral prednisolone in 30 patients with refractory eosinophilic asthma on high-dose inhaled steroids. The primary endpoint was change in sputum differential eosinophil count; secondary endpoints included ACQ score, AQLQ score, pre-bronchodilator FEV1, and bronchial and alveolar nitric oxide. Spirometry was performed using a Vitalograph Gold Standard wedge bellows spirometer.