CLINICAL AND PARACLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ASTHMA PATIENTS AT THE OUTPATIENT CLINIC OF MEDIC CA MAU HOSPITAL
Main Article Content
Abstract
Objective: To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of asthma patients treated at the Medic Ca Mau Hospital asthma clinic, and to assess the strengths and limitations of asthma management at the primary care level. Subjects and methods: A descriptive study was conducted from June to December 2024, including patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with asthma based on GINA 2024 and Vietnam Ministry of Health criteria. Patients had clinical data, chest X-ray, spirometry, and at least one follow-up. The clinic followed a standardized care model led by respiratory specialists. Results: Among 46 patients (mean age 49.6 ± 16.8), the most common symptoms were cough (71.7%), dyspnea (65.2%), wheezing (54.3%), and chest tightness (37%). Most had normal chest X-rays (95.7%) and responded to treatment (93.5%). Spirometry showed airflow obstruction in 67.4%, with 54.3% having a positive bronchodilator test. Medium-dose ICS/LABA was the most prescribed regimen. Conclusion: Early-stage asthma can be effectively managed at the primary care level with high treatment success. Strengthening diagnostic tools and clinical capacity is key to improving asthma care in the community.
Article Details
Keywords
asthma, spirometry, wheezing, allergic rhinitis, inhaled corticosteroids
References
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