Diagnosis of obstructive pulmonary diseases in the process of preventive medical examinations

Abstract

Asthma and COPD due to occupational agents may mimic each other, making it difficult to diagnostics. The mixed asthma - COPD phenotype is possible too. The evaluation of reversibility of obstruction syndrome and measure of airway hypersensitivity are necessary. The indirect challenge tests (step-test, cold air) tend to be more simple in diagnosis of asthma and can be used in prophylactic check-ups.