Refractory asthma : underlying mechanisms, diagnosis and new therapeutic approach.

peer reviewedThere has been a recent increase in the prevalence of asthma worldwide. Most cases can be satisfactorily managed with a combination of inhaled corticoids and bronchodilators. However, some 10% of patients remain symptomatic despite high doses of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β-2 agonists. They represent a heterogeneous group consisting of those who are either undertreated, or really refractory to current available treatment