Which tests may be included in asthma evaluation during PPE?

• A. Stress ECG, upper airway laryngoscopy/rhinoscopy, ECG, or upper endoscopy
• B. Chest X-ray only
• C. Urinalysis and liver function tests
• D. Bone density scan and MRI of brain

Answer: (A)

Asthma evaluation in a PPE is best approached with a broad view that looks at how the body responds to exercise and other factors that can mimic or worsen asthma symptoms. Including tests that assess the heart’s response to exertion (stress testing or ECG) helps determine whether exertional symptoms are from cardiac limits rather than airway disease, which is important for safe participation. Evaluating the upper airway with laryngoscopy or rhinoscopy can identify conditions such as nasal obstruction or laryngeal issues that may contribute to dyspnea alongside asthma. If needed, upper endoscopy can reveal reflux or other esophageal factors that can aggravate asthma control. The other options focus on tests not typically used to assess asthma in PPE, such as a chest X‑ray alone, unrelated labs, or imaging that isn’t relevant to asthma evaluation.