Respiratory muscle activity in the assessment of bronchial responsiveness in asthmatic children

Aline B. Sprikkelman*, Leo A. Van Eykern, Marlies S. Lourens, Hugo S.A. Heymans, Wim M.C. Van Aalderen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

17 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We investigated whether an increase in transcutaneous electromyographic (EMG) activity of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles corresponds with the concentration of histamine that induces a 20% fall in the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1; PC20). Eleven asthmatic children (mean age 11.9 yr) were studied after they were given histamine challenge. EMG activity at PC20 or at the highest histamine concentration was compared with activity at baseline by calculating the ratio of the mean peak-to-peak excursion at the highest histamine dose to that at baseline [EMG activity ratio (EMGAR)]. In all children reaching PC20, an increase in diaphragmatic and intercostal EMGAR was observed. No increase was found at the dose step before PC20 was reached. In six challenges, no fall in FEV1 was induced, and no increase in EMGAR was seen. In two challenges, no fall in FEV1 was induced, but increase in diaphragmatic or intercostal EMGAR was observed. Increase in the electrical activity of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles in asthmatic children corresponds closely to a 20% fall in FEV1 induced by histamine challenge.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)897-901
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Applied Physiology
Volume84
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 1998
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Copyright © 1998 the American Physiological Society

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