Tests 'cut child asthma steroids' (BBC)

Testing the breath and phlegm of children with severe asthma might spare them potentially damaging oral steroid drugs, say scientists.

The tests could help spot early the signs of worsening asthma, allowing it to be brought back under control.

Research by Imperial College London suggested the tests cut the use of oral steroids by nearly a third over a three-year period.

A national guideline already recommends the use of sputum tests in adults.
***
The Imperial team's tests look for signs of increasing lung inflammation - the presence of cells called eosinophils in the sputum, and higher than usual levels of nitric oxide gas in the breath.
***
more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7461688.stm