Prise en charge de l'asthme en urgence

In hospital, admission related to acute asthma represents 100,000 cases a year in France. The peak flow measurement is the cornerstone of the evaluation of the severity of asthma crisis. Severe acute asthma is defined by a peak flow less than 30% of theoretical value. The first line treatment is based on inhalation of β2-agonists and ipratropium bromure. Corticosteroids need to be administered as soon as possible. Orotracheal intubation is less and less frequently required. Patient' education has an important preventive role on the occurrence of crisis.