All that wheezes is not asthma in adults

Wheezing and stridor are symptoms induced by airflow obstruction. While wheezing evokes a sub-glottic origin, stridor, which consists of an inspiratory noise, can be related to an obstacle in the upper airways, larynx, or trachea. Asthma is one of the most frequent causes of wheezing. However differential diagnoses must be considered, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), laryngeal dysfunction, and other causes of bronchial hyperreactivity. Different aetiologies resulting in airway mechanical obstruc-tions, such as extrinsic compressions or endobronchial obstacles, for example, foreign bodies, tumors, or mucosal injuries, can induce wheezing. The research on the cause of stridor must differentiate supra-glottic and sub-glottic obstructions, and take into account the onset and the rhythm of the stridor, whether acute, intermittent, or chronic. The diagnosis relies on a detailed clinical history, rigorous clinical exa-minations of the ENT and the respiratory systems, Chest X-Ray and/or CT-scan, analysis of respiratory functional tests and endoscopy.(c) 2023 Societe franc,aise d'allergologie. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Wheezing and stridor are symptoms caused by airflow obstruction, which can be related to obstruction in the upper airways, larynx, or trachea. Asthma is a common cause, but other diagnoses should be considered. Detailed clinical history, examinations, and tests are necessary for accurate diagnosis.