How to diagnose and treat work‑related asthma. Key messages for clinical practice from the American College of Chest Physicians Consensus Statement

Work‑related asthma is common among adult asthmatics, either asthma initially caused by work (occupational asthma) or pre‑existing asthma worsened by work factors (work‑exacerbated asthma). Appropriate management depends on both correct diagnosis and on recognition of etiology. Following a systematic literature review, the American College of Chest Physicians enpaneled a group of experts that reviewed this material, extended the literature review, and developed a “Consensus Statement on the Diagnosis, and Management of Work‑Related Asthma”, published in 2008. This article addresses the main practical aspects of that Consensus Statement, including clinical clues to diagnosis of work‑related asthma from the medical history, exposure assessment, targeted diagnostic tests, and directed patient management. The range and importance of preventive measures are also addressed.