(Unknown)Pathogenesis of Asthma
Environmental stimuli (antigens, viruses, air pollutants) cause inflammation and in atopic subjects who are genetically predisposed to make IgE, antigens sensitize mast cells. Inflammatory mediators and epithelial damage sensitize autonomic reflexes. Mucus secretion and smooth muscle contraction result from both direct effects of mediators produced by inflammatory cells from reflex stimulation.
