What statement is the most descriptive of asthma? a. It is ...

[mwit1967]

What statement is the most descriptive of asthma?
 
  a. It is inherited.
  b. There is heightened airway reactivity.
  c. There is decreased resistance in the airway.
  d. The single cause of asthma is an allergic hypersensitivity.

Question 2

What diagnostic test for allergies involves the injection of specific allergens?What diagnostic test for allergies involves the injection of specific allergens?
 
  a. Phadiatop
  b. Skin testing
  c. Radioallergosorbent tests (RAST)
  d. Blood examination for total immunoglobulin E (IgE)

[perkiness]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
In asthma, spasm of the smooth muscle of the bronchi and bronchioles causes constriction, producing impaired respiratory function. Atopy, or development of an immunoglobulin E (IgE)mediated response, is inherited but is not the only cause of asthma. Asthma is characterized by increased resistance in the airway. Asthma has multiple causes, including allergens, irritants, exercise, cold air, infections, medications, medical conditions, and endocrine factors.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Skin testing is the most commonly used diagnostic test for allergy. A specific allergen is injected under the skin, and after a suitable time, the size of the resultant wheal is measured to determine the patient's sensitivity. Phadiatop is a screening test that uses a blood sample to assess for IgE antibodies for a group of specific allergens. RAST determines the level of specific IgE antibodies. Blood examination for total IgE would not distinguish among allergens.