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G lobal
itiative
for
IN
sthma
A
Global Initiative for Asthma
Burden of asthma
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide
with an estimated 300 million affected individuals
Prevalence is increasing in many countries, especially in
children
Asthma is a major cause of school and work absence
Health care expenditure on asthma is very high
GINA 2015
Global
Initiative for Asthma
GINA 2015 Appendix Box A1-1; figure provided by
R Beasley
Burden of asthma
GINA 2015
GINA structure
Board of Directors
Chair: J Mark FitzGerald, MD
Science Committee
Chair: Helen Reddel, MBBS PhD
GINA ASSEMBLY
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA Assembly
A network of individuals participating in the dissemination and
implementation of asthma management programs at the local,
national and regional level
GINA Assembly members are invited to meet with the GINA
Executive Committee during the ATS and ERS meetings
45 countries are currently represented in the GINA Assembly
GINA 2015
Bangladesh
Slovenia
Germany
Ireland Saudi Arabia
Yugoslavia Croatia
Australia
Canada
Brazil
Austria
United States
Taiwan
Portugal
Thailand
Philippines
Malta
Greece
Moldova Mexico
China
Syria
South Africa
Egypt
United Kingdom
Hong Kong ROC Chile
New
Italy
Venezuela Cambodia
Zealand
Argentina
Israel
Lebanon
Pakistan
Mongolia
Japan
Poland Korea
Netherland
GINA Assembly
Switzerland
Russia
Turkey Czech
India
Macedonia
Slovakia
Republic
Colombia
Romania
Sweden
France
Belgium
Georgia
Denmark
Singapore Spain
Ukraine
Kyrgyzstan Vietnam
Albania
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
Sources of evidence
New chapters
Management of asthma in children 5 years and younger,
previously published separately in 2009
Diagnosis of asthma-COPD overlap (ACOS): a joint project of
GINA and GOLD
GINA 2015
Diagnosis
A new definition of asthma for clinical practice
Emphasis on confirming the diagnosis of asthma, to avoid both
under- and over-treatment
Asthma control
Two domains - symptom control + risk factors for adverse outcomes
GINA 2014
Breathing exercises
Evidence level down-graded from A to B following review of quality
of evidence and a new meta-analysis
The term breathing exercises (not techniques) is used, to avoid
any perception that a specific technique is recommended
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
Definition of asthma
GINA 2015
Diagnosis of asthma
GINA 2015
Patient with
respiratory symptoms
Are the symptoms typical of asthma?
YES
Detailed history/examination
for asthma
History/examination supports
asthma diagnosis?
YES
Perform spirometry/PEF
with reversibility test
Results support asthma diagnosis?
YES
Patient with
respiratory symptoms
Are the symptoms typical of asthma?
YES
NO
Detailed history/examination
for asthma
History/examination supports
asthma diagnosis?
NO
YES
Perform spirometry/PEF
with reversibility test
Results support asthma diagnosis?
YES
YE
S
Patient with
respiratory symptoms
Are the symptoms typical of asthma?
NO
YES
Detailed history/examination
for asthma
History/examination supports
asthma diagnosis?
Further history and tests for
alternative diagnoses
NO
YES
Perform spirometry/PEF
with reversibility test
Results support asthma diagnosis?
NO
YES
Repeat on another
occasion or arrange
other tests
NO
NO
YE
S
Patient with
respiratory symptoms
Are the symptoms typical of asthma?
NO
YES
Detailed history/examination
for asthma
History/examination supports
asthma diagnosis?
Clinical urgency, and
other diagnoses unlikely
NO
YES
Perform spirometry/PEF
with reversibility test
Results support asthma diagnosis?
NO
YES
Repeat on another
occasion or arrange
other tests
NO
YES
Review response
YE
S
Diagnostic testing
within 1-3 months
NO
GINA 2015
Volume
Normal
FEV1
Asthma
(after BD)
Normal
Asthma
(before BD)
Asthma
(after BD)
Asthma
(before BD)
Volume
Time (seconds)
Note: Each FEV1 represents the highest of
three reproducible measurements
GINA 2015
Respiratory infections
COPD
Upper airway dysfunction
Endobronchial obstruction
Inhaled foreign body
GINA 2015
Assessment of asthma
Assessment of asthma
1.
2.
Treatment issues
3.
Comorbidities
Think of rhinosinusitis, GERD, obesity, obstructive sleep apnea,
depression, anxiety
These may contribute to symptoms and poor quality of life
Partly
controlled
Uncontrolled
None of
these
1-2 of
these
3-4 of
these
*Excludes reliever taken before exercise, because many people take this routinely
Yes No
Any activity limitation due to asthma?
Partly
controlled
Uncontrolled
None of
these
1-2 of
these
3-4 of
these
Diagnosis
Demonstrate variable expiratory airflow limitation
Reconsider diagnosis if symptoms and lung function are discordant
Frequent symptoms but normal FEV1: cardiac disease; lack of fitness?
Few symptoms but low FEV1: poor perception; restriction of lifestyle?
Risk assessment
Low FEV1 is an independent predictor of exacerbation risk
Monitoring progress
Measure lung function at diagnosis, 3-6 months after starting
treatment
(to identify personal best), and then periodically
Consider long-term PEF monitoring for patients with severe asthma
or impaired perception of airflow limitation
Adjusting treatment?
Utility of lung function for adjusting treatment is limited by betweenvisit variability of FEV1 (15% year-to-year)
GINA 2015
How?
Asthma severity is assessed retrospectively from the level of
treatment required to control symptoms and exacerbations
When?
Assess asthma severity after patient has been on controller
treatment for several months
Severity is not static it may change over months or years, or as
different treatments become available
GINA 2015
Remove potential
risk factors. Assess and
manage comorbidities
Consider treatment
step-up
Refer to a specialist or
severe asthma clinic
GINA 2015, Box 2-4 (1/5)
Refer to a specialist or
severe asthma clinic
GINA 2015, Box 2-4 (2/5)
Remove potential
risk factors. Assess and
manage comorbidities
Consider treatment
step-up
Refer to a specialist or
severe asthma clinic
GINA 2015, Box 2-4 (3/5)
Remove potential
risk factors. Assess and
manage comorbidities
Consider treatment
step-up
Refer to a specialist or
severe asthma clinic
GINA 2015, Box 2-4 (4/5)
Remove potential
risk factors. Assess and
manage comorbidities
Consider treatment
step-up
Refer to a specialist or
severe asthma clinic
GINA 2015, Box 2-4 (5/5)
GINA 2015
Friendly manner
Allow the patient to express their goals, beliefs and concerns
Empathy and reassurance
Encouragement and praise
Provide appropriate (personalized) information
Feedback and review
Benefits include:
Increased patient satisfaction
Better health outcomes
Reduced use of health care resources
S
ES
S
AS
ENT
ADJUST TREATM
RE
VI
E
Assess
Adjust treatment (pharmacological and
non-pharmacological)
Review the response
RE
SP
O
NS
E
GINA 2015
IE
W
RE
V
SS
SE
AS
Symptoms
Exacerbations
Side-effects
Patient satisfaction
Lung function
RE
SP
O
NS
E
Diagnosis
Symptom control & risk factors
(including lung function)
Inhaler technique & adherence
Patient preference
MENT
ADJUST TREAT
Asthma medications
Non-pharmacological strategies
Treat modifiable risk factors
Efficacy
based on group mean data for symptoms, exacerbations
Effectiveness and lung function (from RCTs, pragmatic studies and
observational data)
Safety
Availability and cost at the population level
3. Patient preference
What are the patients goals and concerns for their asthma?
4. Practical issues
Inhaler technique - can the patient use the device correctly after training?
Adherence: how often is the patient likely to take the medication?
Cost: can the patient afford the medication?
ADJUST TREATM
Exacerbations
ENT
Asthma medications
Side-effects
Non-pharmacological strategies
Patient satisfaction
Lung function
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
Consider low
dose ICS
RELIEVER
REMEMBER
TO...
STEP 3
STEP 2
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Med/high dose ICS
Low dose
ICS+LTRA
(or + theoph*)
Refer for
add-on
treatment
Med/high
e.g.
ICS/LABA anti-IgE
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
Provide guided self-management education (self-monitoring + written action plan + regular review)
Treat modifiable risk factors and comorbidities, e.g. smoking, obesity, anxiety
Advise about non-pharmacological therapies and strategies e.g. physical activity, weight loss, avoidance of
sensitizers where appropriate
Consider stepping up if uncontrolled symptoms, exacerbations or risks, but check diagnosis, inhaler
technique and adherence first
Consider stepping down if symptoms controlled for 3 months + low risk for exacerbations.
Ceasing ICS is not advised.
RE
S
Patient preference
S
ES
Symptoms
S
AS
PO
NS
E
Side-effects
Patient satisfaction
RE
VI
EW
ENT
ADJUST TREATM
Exacerbations
Asthma medications
Non-pharmacological strategies
Lung function
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
Consider low
dose ICS
STEP 3
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Refer for
add-on
treatment
Med/high
e.g.
ICS/LABA
anti-IgE
Add
tiotropium#
Add low
dose OCS
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
REMEMBER
TO...
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
Consider low
dose ICS
STEP 3
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Med/high dose ICS
Low dose ICS+LTRA
(or + theoph*)
Refer for
add-on
treatment
Med/high
e.g.
ICS/LABA anti-IgE
Add tiotropium#
High dose ICS
+ LTRA
(or + theoph*)
Add
tiotropium#
Add low
dose OCS
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
*For children 6-11 years, theophylline is not recommended, and preferred Step 3 is medium dose ICS
**For patients prescribed BDP/formoterol or BUD/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy
# Tiotropium by soft-mist inhaler is indicated as add-on treatment for patients with a history of
exacerbations; it is not indicated in children <18 years.
Other options
Consider adding regular low dose inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) for
patients at risk of exacerbations
GINA 2015
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
Consider low
dose ICS
STEP 3
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Refer for
add-on
treatment
Med/high
e.g.
ICS/LABA anti-IgE
Add
tiotropium#
Add low
dose OCS
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
*For children 6-11 years, theophylline is not recommended, and preferred Step 3 is medium dose ICS
**For patients prescribed BDP/formoterol or BUD/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy
# Tiotropium by soft-mist inhaler is indicated as add-on treatment for patients with a history of
exacerbations; it is not indicated in children <18 years.
Preferred option: regular low dose ICS with as-needed inhaled SABA
Low dose ICS reduces symptoms and reduces risk of exacerbations and
asthma-related hospitalization and death
Other options
Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA) with as-needed SABA
Less effective than low dose ICS
May be used for some patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis, or if
patient will not use ICS
Intermittent ICS with as-needed SABA for purely seasonal allergic asthma
with no interval symptoms
Start ICS immediately symptoms commence, and continue for
4 weeks after pollen season ends
GINA 2015
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
Consider low
dose ICS
STEP 3
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Med/high dose ICS
Low dose ICS+LTRA
(or + theoph*)
Refer for
add-on
treatment
Med/high
e.g.
ICS/LABA anti-IgE
Add tiotropium#
High dose ICS
+ LTRA
(or + theoph*)
Add
tiotropium#
Add low
dose OCS
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
*For children 6-11 years, theophylline is not recommended, and preferred Step 3 is medium dose ICS
**For patients prescribed BDP/formoterol or BUD/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy
# Tiotropium by soft-mist inhaler is indicated as add-on treatment for patients with a history of
exacerbations; it is not indicated in children <18 years.
*Approved only for low dose beclometasone/formoterol and low dose budesonide/formoterol
GINA 2015
UPDATED!
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
Consider low
dose ICS
STEP 3
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Med/high
ICS/LABA
Refer for
add-on
treatment
e.g.
anti-IgE
Add
tiotropium#
Add low
dose OCS
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
*For children 6-11 years, theophylline is not recommended, and preferred Step 3 is medium dose ICS
**For patients prescribed BDP/formoterol or BUD/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy
# Tiotropium by soft-mist inhaler is indicated as add-on treatment for patients with a history of
exacerbations; it is not indicated in children <18 years.
UPDATED!
UPDATED!
STEP 5
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
Consider low
dose ICS
STEP 3
Low dose
ICS/LABA*
Refer for
add-on
treatment
Med/high
e.g.
ICS/LABA anti-IgE
Add
tiotropium#
Add low
dose OCS
As-needed SABA or
low dose ICS/formoterol**
*For children 6-11 years, theophylline is not recommended, and preferred Step 3 is medium dose ICS
**For patients prescribed BDP/formoterol or BUD/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy
# Tiotropium by soft-mist inhaler is indicated as add-on treatment for patients with a history of
exacerbations; it is not indicated in children <18 years.
UPDATED!
GINA 2015
Medium
High
200500
>5001000
>1000
100200
>200400
>400
Budesonide (DPI)
200400
>400800
>800
Ciclesonide (HFA)
80160
>160320
>320
100250
>250500
>500
Mometasone furoate
110220
>220440
>440
4001000
>10002000
>2000
Triamcinolone acetonide
Medium
High
100200
>200400
>400
50100
>100200
>200
Budesonide (DPI)
100200
>200400
>400
Budesonide (nebules)
250500
>5001000
>1000
80
>80160
>160
100200
>200400
>400
100200
>200500
>500
110
220<440
440
400800
>8001200
>1200
Ciclesonide (HFA)
Mometasone furoate
Triamcinolone acetonide
O
NS
E
RE
SP
RE
VI
EW
ENT
ADJUST TREATM
S
S
SE
AS
Short-term step-up, for 1-2 weeks, e.g. with viral infection or allergen
May be initiated by patient with written asthma action plan
Day-to-day adjustment
For patients prescribed low-dose ICS/formoterol maintenance and reliever
regimen*
*Approved only for low dose beclometasone/formoterol and low dose budesonide/formoterol
GINA 2015
Aim
To find the lowest dose that controls symptoms and exacerbations, and minimizes the
risk of side-effects
*Approved only for low dose beclometasone/formoterol and low dose budesonide/formoterol
GINA 2015, Box 3-8
Non-pharmacological interventions
Physical activity
Encouraged because of its general health benefits. Provide advice about
exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
Occupational asthma
Ask patients with adult-onset asthma about work history. Remove sensitizers
as soon as possible. Refer for expert advice, if available
(Allergen avoidance)
(Not recommended as a general strategy for asthma)
GINA 2015
Check
Check technique at every opportunity Can you show me how you use your
inhaler at present?
Identify errors with a device-specific checklist
Check
Check technique at every opportunity Can you show me how you use your
inhaler at present?
Identify errors with a device-specific checklist
Correct
Give a physical demonstration to show how to use the inhaler correctly
Check again (up to 2-3 times)
Re-check inhaler technique frequently, as errors often recur within 4-6 weeks
Check
Check technique at every opportunity Can you show me how you use your
inhaler at present?
Identify errors with a device-specific checklist
Correct
Give a physical demonstration to show how to use the inhaler correctly
Check again (up to 2-3 times)
Re-check inhaler technique frequently, as errors often recur within 4-6 weeks
Confirm
Can you demonstrate correct technique for the inhalers you prescribe?
Brief inhaler technique training improves asthma control
GINA 2015, Box 3-11 (4/4)
Poor adherence:
Is very common: it is estimated that 50% of adults and children do
not take controller medications as prescribed
Contributes to uncontrolled asthma symptoms and risk of
exacerbations and asthma-related death
Contributory factors
Unintentional (e.g. forgetfulness, cost, confusion) and/or
Intentional (e.g. no perceived need, fear of side-effects, cultural
issues, cost)
GINA 2015
Shared decision-making
Simplifying the medication regimen (once vs twice-daily)
Comprehensive asthma education with nurse home visits
Inhaler reminders for missed doses
Reviewing patients detailed dispensing records
GINA 2015
Phenotype-guided treatment
Sputum-guided treatment to reduce exacerbations and/or steroid dose
Severe allergic asthma: suggest add-on anti-IgE treatment (omalizumab)
Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease: consider add-on LTRA
Non-pharmacological interventions
Consider bronchial thermoplasty for selected patients
Comprehensive adherence-promoting program
Asthma flare-ups
(exacerbations)
GINA 2015
Why?
When combined with self-monitoring and regular medical review,
action plans are highly effective in reducing asthma mortality and
morbidity
GINA 2015
If PEF or FEV1
<60% best, or not
improving after
48 hours
EARLY OR MILD
All patients
Continue reliever
Increase reliever
Continue controller
Early increase in
controller as below
Add prednisolone
4050 mg/day
Review response
Contact doctor
LATE OR SEVERE
NEW!
Outcomes were consistently better if the action plan prescribed both increased
ICS, and OCS
GINA 2015
Is it asthma?
MILD or MODERATE
SEVERE
LIFE-THREATENING
Drowsy, confused
or silent chest
URGENT
START TREATMENT
SABA 410 puffs by pMDI + spacer,
repeat every 20 minutes for 1 hour
Prednisolone: adults 1 mg/kg, max.
50 mg, children 12 mg/kg, max. 40 mg
WORSENING
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
While waiting: give inhaled
SABA and ipratropium bromide,
O2, systemic corticosteroid
WORSENING
IMPROVING
ARRANGE at DISCHARGE
FOLLOW UP
Reliever: reduce to as-needed
Controller: continue higher dose for short term (12 weeks) or long term (3 months), depending
on background to exacerbation
Risk factors: check and correct modifiable risk factors that may have contributed to exacerbation,
including inhaler technique and adherence
Action plan: Is it understood? Was it used appropriately? Does it need modification?
PRIMARY CARE
Is it asthma?
LIFE-THREATENING
Drowsy, confused
or silent chest
URGENT
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
While waiting: give inhaled SABA
and ipratropium bromide, O2,
systemic corticosteroid
PRIMARY CARE
Is it asthma?
MILD or MODERATE
SEVERE
LIFE-THREATENING
Drowsy, confused
or silent chest
URGENT
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
While waiting: give inhaled SABA
and ipratropium bromide, O2,
systemic corticosteroid
PRIMARY CARE
Is it asthma?
MILD or MODERATE
SEVERE
START TREATMENT
Drowsy, confused
or silent chest
URGENT
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
LIFE-THREATENING
WORSENING
START TREATMENT
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
WORSENING
WORSENING
IMPROVING
START TREATMENT
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
WORSENING
WORSENING
IMPROVING
ARRANGE at DISCHARGE
START TREATMENT
TRANSFER TO ACUTE
CARE FACILITY
WORSENING
WORSENING
IMPROVING
ARRANGE at DISCHARGE
FOLLOW UP
Reliever: reduce to as-needed
Controller: continue higher dose for short term (12 weeks) or long term (3 months), depending
on background to exacerbation
Risk factors: check and correct modifiable risk factors that may have contributed to exacerbation,
including inhaler technique and adherence
Action plan: Is it understood? Was it used appropriately? Does it need modification?
NO
YES
MILD or MODERATE
SEVERE
Talks in phrases
Prefers sitting to lying
Not agitated
Respiratory rate increased
Accessory muscles not used
Pulse rate 100120 bpm
O2 saturation (on air) 9095%
Talks in words
Sits hunched forwards
Agitated
Respiratory rate >30/min
Accessory muscles being used
Pulse rate >120 bpm
O2 saturation (on air) < 90%
Short-acting beta2-agonists
Short-acting beta2-agonists
Ipratropium bromide
Controlled O2 to maintain
INITIAL ASSESSMENT
NO
YES
MILD or MODERATE
Talks in phrases
Prefers sitting to lying
Not agitated
Respiratory rate increased
Accessory muscles not used
Pulse rate 100120 bpm
O2 saturation (on air) 9095%
SEVERE
Talks in words
Sits hunched forwards
Agitated
Respiratory rate >30/min
Accessory muscles being used
Pulse rate >120 bpm
O2 saturation (on air) < 90%
MILD or MODERATE
SEVERE
Talks in phrases
Prefers sitting to lying
Not agitated
Respiratory rate increased
Accessory muscles not used
Pulse rate 100120 bpm
O2 saturation (on air) 9095%
PEF >50% predicted or best
Talks in words
Sits hunched forwards
Agitated
Respiratory rate >30/min
Accessory muscles being used
Pulse rate >120 bpm
O2 saturation (on air) < 90%
PEF 50% predicted or best
Short-acting beta2-agonists
Short-acting beta2-agonists
Ipratropium bromide
Controlled O2 to maintain
saturation 9395% (children 94-98%)
Oral or IV corticosteroids
Consider IV magnesium
Consider high dose ICS
Short-acting beta2-agonists
Short-acting beta2-agonists
Ipratropium bromide
Controlled O2 to maintain
saturation 9395% (children 94-98%)
Controlled O2 to maintain
saturation 9395% (children 94-98%)
Oral corticosteroids
Oral or IV corticosteroids
Consider IV magnesium
Consider high dose ICS
If continuing deterioration, treat
as
severe and re-assess for ICU
The opportunity
Exacerbations often represent failures in chronic asthma care,
and they provide opportunities to review the patients asthma
management
Background
GINA 2015
Background
Frequent exacerbations
Poor quality of life
More rapid decline in lung function
Higher mortality
Greater health care utilization
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
Definitions
Asthma
Asthma is a heterogeneous disease, usually characterized by chronic airway
inflammation. It is defined by the history of respiratory symptoms such as wheeze,
shortness of breath, chest tightness and cough that vary over time and in intensity,
together with variable expiratory airflow limitation. [GINA 2015]
Definitions
Asthma
Asthma is a heterogeneous disease, usually characterized by chronic airway
inflammation. It is defined by the history of respiratory symptoms such as wheeze,
shortness of breath, chest tightness and cough that vary over time and in intensity,
together with variable expiratory airflow limitation. [GINA 2015]
COPD
COPD is a common preventable and treatable disease, characterized by persistent
airflow limitation that is usually progressive and associated with enhanced chronic
inflammatory responses in the airways and the lungs to noxious particles or gases.
Exacerbations and comorbidities contribute to the overall severity in individual patients.
[GOLD 2015]
Definitions
Asthma
Asthma is a heterogeneous disease, usually characterized by chronic airway
inflammation. It is defined by the history of respiratory symptoms such as wheeze,
shortness of breath, chest tightness and cough that vary over time and in intensity,
together with variable expiratory airflow limitation. [GINA 2015]
COPD
COPD is a common preventable and treatable disease, characterized by persistent
airflow limitation that is usually progressive and associated with enhanced chronic
inflammatory responses in the airways and the lungs to noxious particles or gases.
Exacerbations and comorbidities contribute to the overall severity in individual patients.
[GOLD 2015]
STEP 1
Yes
STEP 2
No
Lung function
Lung function between
symptoms
Past history or family
history
Time course
Chest X-ray
COPD
After age 40 years
Normal
Abnormal
NOTE: These features best distinguish between asthma and COPD. Several positive features (3 or more) for either asthma or
COPD suggest that diagnosis. If there are a similar number for both asthma and COPD, consider diagnosis of ACOS
DIAGNOSIS
Asthma
Some features
of asthma
CONFIDENCE IN
DIAGNOSIS
Asthma
Asthma
STEP 3
PERFORM
SPIROMETRY
STEP 4
INITIAL
TREATMENT*
STEP 5
SPECIALISED
INVESTIGATIONS
or REFER IF:
Features of
both
Could be
ACOS
Marked
reversible airflow limitation
(pre-post bronchodilator) or other
proof of variable airflow limitation
Some features
of COPD
Possibly
COPD
COPD
COPD
ICS, and
Asthma
Asthma drugs
COPD
COPD
usually
drugs
No LABA
drugs
drugs
LABA
No LABA
monotherapy
monotherapy
+/or LAMA
*Consult GINA and GOLD documents for recommended treatments.
Persistent symptoms and/or exacerbations despite treatment.
Diagnostic uncertainty (e.g. suspected pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular diseases
and other causes of respiratory symptoms).
Suspected asthma or COPD with atypical or additional symptoms or signs (e.g.
haemoptysis, weight loss, night sweats, fever, signs of bronchiectasis or other structural
lung disease).
Few features of either asthma or COPD.
Comorbidities present.
Reasons for referral for either diagnosis as outlined in the GINA and GOLD strategy
reports.
STEP 1
Yes
GINA 2015
No
Physical examination
May be normal
Evidence of hyperinflation or respiratory insufficiency
Wheeze and/or crackles
GINA 2015
Screening questionnaires
Designed to assist in identification of patients at risk of chronic
airways disease
May not be generalizable to all countries, practice settings or
patients
See GINA and GOLD reports for examples
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
STEP 2
ASTHMA
COPD
Age of onset
Pattern of symptoms
Worse during the night or early morning Good and bad days but always daily
symptoms and exertional dyspnea
Triggered by exercise, emotions
including laughter, dust or exposure
to allergens
Lung function
Normal
Abnormal
Chest X-ray
Normal
Severe hyperinflation
NOTE: These features best distinguish between asthma and COPD. Several positive features (3 or more) for either asthma or COPD suggest
that diagnosis. If there are a similar number for both asthma and COPD, consider diagnosis of ACOS
DIAGNOSIS
Asthma
Some features
of asthma
Features of
both
Some features
of COPD
COPD
CONFIDENCE IN
DIAGNOSIS
Asthma
Asthma
Could be ACOS
Possibly COPD
COPD
GINA
2015, Box 5-4
GINA
2014
STEP 3
PERFORM
SPIROMETRY
GINA 2015
Marked
reversible airflow limitation
(pre-post bronchodilator) or other
proof of variable airflow limitation
Step 3 - Spirometry
Step 3 - Spirometry
Spirometric variable
Normal FEV1/FVC
pre- or post-BD
Asthma
COPD
Post-BD
FEV1/FVC <0.7 Indicates airflow
limitation; may improve
ACOS
Not compatible unless
other evidence of chronic
airflow limitation
Usual in ACOS
FEV1<80% predicted
Indicates severity of
airflow limitation and risk
of exacerbations and
mortality
Post-BD
increase in
High probability of
FEV1 >12% and 400mL asthma
from baseline
Unusual in COPD.
Consider ACOS
Compatible with
diagnosis of ACOS
STEP 4
INITIAL
TREATMENT*
Asthma drugs
No LABA
monotherapy
Asthma drugs
No LABA
monotherapy
ICS and
consider LABA
+/or LAMA
COPD drugs
COPD drugs
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
STEP 3
PERFORM
SPIROMETRY
STEP 5
SPECIALISED
INVESTIGATIONS
or REFER IF:
GINA 2015
GINA 2015
Asthma
COPD
DLCO
Often reduced
Normal between
exacerbations
Airway
hyperresponsiveness
High resolution CT
scan
Conforms to background
prevalence; does not rule out COPD
FENO
Blood eosinophilia
Sputum inflammatory
cell analysis
GINA 2015
Cough
Wheezing
Difficult or heavy
breathing or
shortness of breath
Reduced activity
Typical features
Gastroesophageal reflux
Tracheomalacia or
bronchomalacia
Tuberculosis
Typical features
Cystic fibrosis
Vascular ring
Bronchopulmonary
dysplasia
Immune deficiency
Partly
controlled
Uncontrolled
None of
these
1-2 of
these
3-4 of
these
IE
W
RE
V
SS
SE
AS
Symptoms
Exacerbations
Side-effects
Parent satisfaction
RE
SP
O
NS
E
Diagnosis
Symptom control & risk factors
Inhaler technique & adherence
Parent preference
MENT
ADJUST TREAT
Asthma medications
Non-pharmacological strategies
Treat modifiable risk factors
Symptoms
ENT
ADJUST TREATM
Exacerbations
Side-effects
Asthma medications
Parent satisfaction
Non-pharmacological strategies
Treat modifiable risk factors
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
STEP 2
KEY
ISSUES
Continue
controller
& refer for
specialist
assessment
Double
low dose
ICS
Add LTRA
Inc. ICS
frequency
Add intermitt ICS
RELIEVER
CONSIDER
THIS STEP FOR
CHILDREN
WITH:
STEP 3
Infrequent
viral wheezing
and no or few
interval
symptoms
Not wellcontrolled
on double
ICS
ALL CHILDREN
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
Other
controller
options
Double
low dose
ICS
Continue
controller
& refer for
specialist
assessment
Add LTRA
Intermittent ICS
Inc. ICS
frequency
Add intermitt
ICS
RELIEVER
CONSIDER
THIS STEP FOR
CHILDREN
WITH:
STEP 3
STEP 2
Infrequent
viral wheezing
and no or
few interval
symptoms
Not wellcontrolled
on double
ICS
ALL CHILDREN
Assess symptom control, future risk, comorbidities
Self-management: education, inhaler skills, written asthma action plan, adherence
Regular review: assess response, adverse events, establish minimal effective treatment
(Where relevant): environmental control for smoke, allergens, indoor/outdoor air pollution
Self-management
Education, inhaler skills, written asthma action plan, adherence
Regular review
Assess response, adverse events, establish minimal effective treatment
Other
(Where relevant): environmental control for smoke, allergens, indoor or
outdoor air pollution
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
Other
controller
options
Double
low dose
ICS
Continue
controller
& refer for
specialist
assessment
Add LTRA
Intermittent ICS
Inc. ICS
frequency
Add intermitt
ICS
RELIEVER
CONSIDER
THIS STEP FOR
CHILDREN
WITH:
STEP 3
STEP 2
Infrequent
viral wheezing
and no or
few interval
symptoms
Not wellcontrolled
on double
ICS
Other options
Oral bronchodilator therapy is not recommended (slower onset of
action, more side-effects)
For children with intermittent viral-induced wheeze and no interval
symptoms, if as-needed SABA is not sufficient, consider
intermittent ICS. Because of the risk of side-effects, this should only
be considered if the physician is confident that the treatment will be
used appropriately.
GINA 2015
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
Other
controller
options
Double
low dose
ICS
Continue
controller
& refer for
specialist
assessment
Add LTRA
Intermittent ICS
Inc. ICS
frequency
RELIEVER
CONSIDER
THIS STEP FOR
CHILDREN
WITH:
STEP 3
STEP 2
Infrequent
viral wheezing
and no or
few interval
symptoms
Add intermitt
ICS
Indication
Child with symptom pattern consistent with asthma, and symptoms not
well-controlled, or 3 exacerbations per year
May also be used as a diagnostic trial for children with frequent
wheezing episodes
Preferred option: regular daily low dose ICS + as-needed inhaled SABA
Give for 3 months to establish effectiveness, and review response
GINA 2015
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
Other
controller
options
Double
low dose
ICS
Continue
controller
& refer for
specialist
assessment
Add LTRA
Intermittent ICS
Inc. ICS
frequency
Add intermitt
ICS
RELIEVER
CONSIDER
THIS STEP FOR
CHILDREN
WITH:
STEP 3
STEP 2
Infrequent
viral wheezing
and no or
few interval
symptoms
Not wellcontrolled
on double
ICS
Indication
Asthma diagnosis, and symptoms not well-controlled on low dose
ICS
First check symptoms are due to asthma, and check adherence,
inhaler technique and environmental exposures
Other options
Consider adding LTRA to low dose ICS (based on data from older
children)
GINA 2015
STEP 4
PREFERRED
CONTROLLER
CHOICE
STEP 1
Other
controller
options
Continue
controller
& refer for
specialist
assessment
Double
low dose
ICS
Intermittent ICS
Add LTRA
Inc. ICS
frequency
Add intermitt
ICS
RELIEVER
CONSIDER
THIS STEP FOR
CHILDREN
WITH:
STEP 3
STEP 2
Infrequent
viral wheezing
and no or
few interval
symptoms
Not wellcontrolled
on double
ICS
Indication
Asthma diagnosis, and symptoms not well-controlled on medium
dose ICS
First check symptoms are due to asthma, and check adherence,
inhaler technique and environmental exposures
Higher dose ICS and/or more frequent dosing (for a few weeks)
Add LTRA, theophylline or low dose OCS (for a few weeks only)
Add intermittent ICS to regular daily ICS if exacerbations are the
main problem
ICS/LABA not recommended in this age group
GINA 2015
100
200
Budesonide (nebulizer)
500
100
Ciclesonide
160
Mometasone furoate
Triamcinolone acetonide
Preferred device
Alternate device
03 years
45 years
GINA
Box6-7
6-6
GINA 2015,
2015, Box
NEW!
PRIMARY CARE
MILD or MODERATE
any of:
Unable to speak or drink
Central cyanosis
Confusion or drowsiness
Marked subcostal and/or sub-glottic
retractions
Oxygen saturation <92%
Silent chest on auscultation
Pulse rate > 200 bpm (0-3 yrs)
or >180 bpm (4-5 yrs)
Breathless, agitated
Pulse rate 200 bpm (0-3 yrs) or 180 bpm (4-5 yrs)
Oxygen saturation 92%
START TREATMENT
Salbutamol 100 mcg two puffs by pMDI + spacer
or 2.5mg by nebulizer
Repeat every 20 min for the first hour if needed
Controlled oxygen (if needed and available):
target saturation 94-98%
URGENT
Worsening,
or lack of
improvement
Worsening,
or lack of
improvement
Worsening,
or failure to
respond to
10 puffs
salbutamol
over 3-4 hrs
IMPROVING
DISCHARGE/FOLLOW-UP PLANNING
Ensure that resources at home are adequate.
Reliever: continue as needed
Controller: consider need for, or adjustment of, regular
controller
Check inhaler technique and adherence
Follow up: within 1-7 days
Provide and explain action plan
FOLLOW UP VISIT
Reliever: Reduce to as-needed
Controller: Continue or adjust depending on cause of exacerbation, and duration of need for extra salbutamol
Risk factors: Check and correct modifiable risk factors that may have contributed to exacerbation, including
inhaler technique and adherence
Action plan: Is it understood? Was it used appropriately? Does it need modification?
Schedule next follow up visit
Mild
Severe*
Altered consciousness
No
Oximetry on
presentation (SaO2)**
>95%
<92%
Sentences
Words
<100 beats/min
Central cyanosis
Absent
Likely to be present
Wheeze intensity
Variable
Speech
Pulse rate
Supplemental
oxygen
Inhaled SABA
Systemic
corticosteroids
Supplemental
oxygen
Inhaled SABA
Systemic
corticosteroids
Magnesium
sulfate
GINA 2015
Patients
www.ginasthma.org
GINA 2015