More Information

Asthma -> Leukotriene E4, excessive

Overview

Leukotrienes play a key role in the pathophysiology of chronic asthma. Activation of leukotriene pathways is accompanied by rises in detectable urinary levels of leukotriene E4 (LTE4). Activation of leukotriene pathways in acute asthma is correlated with the degree of airflow obstruction, and resolution of the asthma exacerbation is associated with a reduction in leukotriene levels.

References (evidence level: 3b - single-expert opinion w/data review)

Green SA, Malice MP, Tanaka W, et al. Increase in urinary leukotriene LTE4 levels in acute asthma: correlation with airflow limitation. Thorax. 2004 Mar;59(2)100-4.
Higashi N, Taniguchi M, Mita H, et al. Clinical features of asthmatic patients with increased urinary leukotriene E4 excretion (hyperleukotrienuria): Involvement of chronic hyperplastic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2004 Mar;113(2)277-83.
Rubinsztajn R, Wrońska J, Chazan R. [Urinary leukotriene E4 concentration in patients with bronchial asthma and intolerance of non-steroids anti-inflammatory drugs before and after oral aspirin challenge]. Pol Arch Med Wewn. 2004 Mar;110(2)849-54.
Vachier I, Kumlin M, Dahlén SE, et al. High levels of urinary leukotriene E4 excretion in steroid treated patients with severe asthma. Respir Med. 2004 Jan;97(11)1225-9.