Aspirin, Menstruation, Genetic Mutations Linked to Severe Asthma Attacks

DECEMBER 13, 2012

DENVER — Among people who suffer asthma attacks, premenstrual women and patients whose attack was triggered by aspirin are most likely to suffer severe attacks requiring intubation and/or admission to an intensive care unit, according to National Jewish pulmonologist Sally Wenzel, MD Wenzel presented her data at the American Thoracic Society's International Conference.

 

In a separate talk, Wenzel presented data linking mutations in the interleukin-4 receptor to severe asthma attacks requiring intubations. These mutations are more common among African Americans, who suffer asthma more frequently and severely than Caucasians. Wenzel believes there may also be a link between these mutations and both pre-menstrual asthma, and aspirin-sensitive asthma.