PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - David Jackson AU - Maria-Belen Trujillo-Torralbo AU - Jerico Del-Rosario AU - Julia Aniscenko AU - Sebastian Johnston TI - Experimental rhinovirus infection in moderate asthma DP - 2011 Sep 01 TA - European Respiratory Journal PG - p2498 VI - 38 IP - Suppl 55 4099 - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/38/Suppl_55/p2498.short 4100 - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/38/Suppl_55/p2498.full SO - Eur Respir J2011 Sep 01; 38 AB - Background: Rhinovirus (RV) is the most common cause for asthma exacerbations. Underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. A human model of experimental infection with RV has been introduced however published studies have thus far only recruited mild asthmatics. In order to be more representative of those who experience virus-induced exacerbations there is a need to establish the safety of this model in moderate asthma.Aim: To assess the safety of using the RV challenge model in subjects with moderate asthma treated with inhaled corticosteroids.Methods: Six subjects with moderately severe atopic asthma requiring maintenance inhaled corticosteroids were infected with RV16. Nasal lavage (NL) and clinic spirometry was performed on days 0,2,3,4,5,7,10. Symptom scores were recorded daily throughout the study. Clinical infection was confirmed using a combination of symptom scores, demonstration of RV16 RNA by RT-PCR in nasal lavage and at least a 4-fold increase in RV16 specific antibody titres on day 42.Results: All 6 subjects developed symptoms of a common cold 24-48 hours prior to an increase in lower respiratory symptoms. This was accompanied by a drop in morning FEV1 (mean fall of 25.6%). Whilst all subjects increased their use of bronchodilator, no subjects required oral corticosteroid therapy. RV16 was demonstrated in NL in all subjects.Conclusions: In this pilot study infection with RV16 in moderate asthma was well-tolerated resulting in a mild exacerbation. No unexpected adverse events or requirement for oral steroids occurred. The use of RV challenge in moderate asthma therefore appears safe. Results of future studies using this group of patients will better reflect those individuals with the greatest burden of disease.