Rôle des hormones sexuelles dans l'asthme de la femme

The effects of sex hormones on asthma are intricate. Events occurring during an asthmatic woman's reproductive life seem to influence its severity. Hormonal changes are not the only ones influencing the severity of asthma. Other factors such as weight increase, may have a part to play. Variations of respiratory symptoms and FEV occur during the menstrual cycle, suggesting a role of sex hormones. This effect is also influenced by body mass index (BMI). Asthma can develop after the menopause and seems to be a particular phenotype. A role of œstradiol is implied, and it is also influenced by BMI. Pre-menstrual asthma is a reality and seems to be associated with more severe symptoms. The role of sex hormones in asthma is difficult to evaluate due to its complexity and it is influenced by many factors such as obesity. The effect of hormonal treatments on improving or aggravating asthma symptoms is not clearly established.