Which statement best describes extrinsic asthma?

Which statement best describes extrinsic asthma?

• A. Non-allergic triggers such as chemicals
• B. Allergic with elevated IgE
• C. Triggered only by exercise
• D. Not related to allergies

Answer: (B)

Extrinsic asthma is the allergic form of asthma that is driven by IgE-mediated responses to environmental allergens. In this type, the immune system makes IgE antibodies against things like pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. When exposed, these IgE antibodies trigger release of mediators from mast cells, leading to airway inflammation, swelling, and bronchoconstriction. Elevated IgE levels and a tendency toward atopy are hallmarks. It’s distinct from non-allergic asthma, where IgE isn’t involved and triggers may be nonallergic irritants or other factors. This makes the description of extrinsic asthma as allergic with elevated IgE the best fit.

Extrinsic asthma is the allergic form of asthma that is driven by IgE-mediated responses to environmental allergens. In this type, the immune system makes IgE antibodies against things like pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. When exposed, these IgE antibodies trigger release of mediators from mast cells, leading to airway inflammation, swelling, and bronchoconstriction. Elevated IgE levels and a tendency toward atopy are hallmarks. It’s distinct from non-allergic asthma, where IgE isn’t involved and triggers may be nonallergic irritants or other factors. This makes the description of extrinsic asthma as allergic with elevated IgE the best fit.