Increased airway smooth muscle mass in children with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

This study examined whether an increase in airway smooth muscle mass was already present in children with chronic inflammatory lung disease; included patients (n=78) had asthma, cystic fibrosis, non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, or no lower respiratory tract disease. An objective of the study was to determine whether any increase in airway smooth muscle mass was associated with functional markers of airflow obstruction. This included pre-bronchoscopy FEV1 reversibility, measured using a Vitalograph In2itive spirometer. FeNO was measured using the NIOX VERO device.