Two more guidelines on occupational asthma for the non-specialist

In the last month 2 new sets of guidelines for the management of workers with occupational asthma by the non-specialist have been published. They are surprisingly different. The European Accademy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has provided a consensus document which concentrates on tests that are available in hospital clinics, the assessment of bronchial inflammation and exposures which are much more detailed than the evidenced based document from the (UK) Royal College of Physicians, which is based on the evidence-based BOHRF guidelines, and concentrate on tests that are available by generalists, in particular serial measurements of lung function at home and work (completely omitted from the EAACI investigation pathway). Both at least recommend referral to a specialist in occupational lung disease for confirmatory diagnosis and management.

References

	Nicholson PJ, Cullinan P, Burge PS, Concise guidance: diagnosis, management and prevention of occupational asthma, Clinical Medicine, 2012;12:156-159,

	Moscato G, Pala G, Barnig C, De Blay F, Del Giacco SR, Folletti I, Heffler E, Maestrelli P, Pauli G, Perfetti L, Quirce S, Sastre J, Siracusa A, Walusiak-Skorupa J, van Gerth Wjik R, EAACI consensus statement for investigation of work-related asthma in non-specialized centres, Allergy, 2012;67:491-501,

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