Use of Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide to Guide the Treatment of Asthma An Official American Thoracic Society Clinical Practice Guideline

Background: The fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) test is a point-of-care test that is used in the assessment of asthma. Objective: To provide evidence-based clinical guidance on whether F-ENO testing is indicated to optimize asthma treatment in patients with asthma in whom treatment is being considered. Methods: An international, multidisciplinary panel of experts was convened to form a consensus document regarding a single question relevant to the use of F-ENO. The question was selected from three potential questions based on the greatest perceived impact on clinical practice and the unmet need for evidence-based answers related to this question. The panel performed systematic reviews of published randomized controlled trials between 2004 and 2019 and followed the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) evidence-to-decision framework to develop recommendations. All panel members evaluated and approved the recommendations. Main Results: After considering the overall low quality of the evidence, the panel made a conditional recommendation for FENO-based care. In patients with asthma in whom treatment is being considered, we suggest that FENO is beneficial and should be used in addition to usual care. This judgment is based on a balance of effects that probably favors the intervention; the moderate costs and availability of resources, which probably favors the intervention; and the perceived acceptability and feasibility of the intervention in daily practice. Conclusions: Clinicians should consider this recommendation to measure F-ENO in patients with asthma in whom treatment is being considered based on current best available evidence.

Automated summary

The FENO test is a useful tool in assessing asthma patients, and based on the latest evidence a recommendation has been made that using FENO in patients under consideration for treatment may be beneficial and should be used in conjunction with standard care.