Table 1 Different patterns of fatal asthma
Scenario of asthma death | ||
|---|---|---|
Variable | Type 1 | Type 2 |
Time course | Subacute worsening (days). 'Slow onset – late arrival' | Acute deterioration (hours). 'Sudden asphyxic asthma' |
Frequency | ≅ 80–85% | ≅ 15–20% |
Airways | Extensive mucous plugging | More or less 'empty' bronchi |
Inflammation | Eosinophils | Neutrophils |
Response to treatment | Slow | Faster |
Prevention | Possible | (?) |