We uncover the unique breath print of different respiratory diseases to support patient diagnosis and treatment.
Respiratory Diseases
Respiratory diseases affect the airways or the structures of the lung. Globally, the number of affected patients is increasing. Many respiratory diseases are associated with high morbidity and mortality.
The most common respiratory diseases are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lower respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Since the respiratory system is in direct contact with exhaled breath, DBI’s breath analysis can uncover metabolites that are uniquely associated with respiratory diseases and not easily accessible through conventional diagnostic procedures. Our work fosters the understanding of underlying pathophysiological mechanisms in respiratory diseases and helps develop more effective diagnostic procedures to ultimately improve patient treatment.
DBI offers a unique end-to-end solution for breath analysis across various respiratory diseases, including standardized data collection, analysis and interpretation.
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease causing obstructed airflow from the lungs. Main symptoms include breathing difficulties, cough, mucus and wheezing.
Acute exacerbations in COPD are characterized by a sudden worsening of symptoms that persists for several days.
We at DBI support research activities to measure the molecular breath print of COPD patients during and after exacerbations in order to predict COPD exacerbations.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway. Frequent sleep disruptions and disturbances of blood oxygenation result in poor sleep quality and increased daytime drowsiness.
Many people suffering from OSA are unaware of the sleep disturbances. Symptoms that may be noticeable to bed partners include snoring, stopped or labored breathing, gagging or choking. Negative consequences to health and quality of life are common, including increased risk for cardiovascular disease and depression.
OSA is typically diagnosed with respiratory polygraphy or polysomnography. However, OSA results in systemic metabolic changes that influence the molecular breath print of the affected individual.
We at DBI support research activities on the importance of the molecular breath print of OSA for diagnosis and treatment monitoring of this condition, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or pharmacotherapy.
Further Research On Respiratory Diseases
- Asthma
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pneumonia