Bronchoprovocation test

What is bronchoprovocation test?

The bronchoprovocation test is a diagnostic method used to assess airway sensitivity and identify hidden or mild asthma. During the test, the patient inhales a specific medication or substance (such as methacholine or histamine) that may cause temporary narrowing of the bronchi if the airways are hyperreactive. This is followed by breathing tests (spirometry) to evaluate lung function and the bronchi’s response.

When is a bronchoprovocation test performed?

The bronchoprovocation test is performed when there is a suspicion of increased airway sensitivity or hidden asthma, but standard breathing tests have not provided a clear diagnosis. It is usually recommended for patients with the following symptoms:

• Chronic cough (especially at night or after physical exertion)
• Shortness of breath or breathlessness
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing (whistling sound while breathing)
• Unexplained breathing difficulties during physical activity

Important! The bronchoprovocation test is not performed on pregnant women.

When are pulmonary function tests not performed?

Pulmonary function tests cannot be performed if, within the last 4 weeks, there has been:

• Chest or abdominal surgery
• Pneumothorax
• Myocardial infarction
• Infection of the nose, sinuses, or ears
• Surgery involving the nose, sinuses, or ears
• Eye surgery
• Brain surgery
• Concussion (traumatic brain injury)

Is the patient at increased health risk:

• Cerebral, aortic, or other vascular aneurysm
• History of loss of consciousness, severe coughing fits, or forceful exhalation
• Recent or current hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
• Severe arterial hypertension
• Uncontrolled pulmonary hypertension

Before the examination, please inform the medical staff if you have:

• Arterial hypotension
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Decompensated heart failure
• Unstable angina
• Recent pulmonary embolism
• Current tuberculosis or other respiratory infections, or are receiving treatment for such infections
• Current oral mucosal lesions or bleeding from the oral cavity