Advances in Respiratory Medicine

33 pages, 1144 KiB

Open AccessReview

Concomitant Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Lung Cancer: An Updated Narrative Review

by Bartłomiej Czyżak and Sebastian Majewski

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040031 - 18 Aug 2025

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Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive interstitial lung disease (ILD) with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. The introduction of antifibrotic agents has improved survival outcomes in IPF patients, which has led to more frequent recognition of comorbidities, particularly lung [...] Read more.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive interstitial lung disease (ILD) with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. The introduction of antifibrotic agents has improved survival outcomes in IPF patients, which has led to more frequent recognition of comorbidities, particularly lung cancer (LC). This review summarizes current evidence on the epidemiology and pathogenesis of LC in the context of IPF, with particular emphasis placed on shared molecular, cellular, genetic, and epigenetic alterations. Diagnostic approaches and available treatment modalities, including surgical, systemic, and radiation therapies, are outlined, and their limitations in patients with IPF-LC are discussed. Acute exacerbations (AEs), as a life-threatening complication influencing diagnostic and treatment strategies, are specifically addressed. Moreover, studies indicating a possible protective effect of antifibrotic agents against LC development in IPF are reviewed. Further research is warranted into the shared mechanisms of IPF and LC to identify novel therapeutic targets. Establishing standardized, multidisciplinary clinical guidelines is essential for optimizing patient management, reducing AE risk, and improving patient outcomes. Full article

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14 pages, 567 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Integrated Strategy for Preventing and Rehabilitating Dust-Induced Occupational Bronchopulmonary Diseases: A Scoping Review

by Alexandr E. Gulyayev, Karlygash S. Absattarova, Sayagul A. Kairgeldina, Raushan S. Dosmagambetova, Kanat K. Tekebayev, Madina B. Baurzhan, Nazym Sagandykova and Gaukhar Sh. Dauletova

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040030 - 13 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Background: Occupational bronchopulmonary diseases (OBPDs)—including pneumoconiosis, silicosis, and occupational COPD—remain a pressing public health issue, especially in regions with intensive mining, metallurgy, and construction industries. Caused by chronic inhalation of fibrogenic dusts, these conditions are often diagnosed at late stages, resulting in irreversible [...] Read more.

Background: Occupational bronchopulmonary diseases (OBPDs)—including pneumoconiosis, silicosis, and occupational COPD—remain a pressing public health issue, especially in regions with intensive mining, metallurgy, and construction industries. Caused by chronic inhalation of fibrogenic dusts, these conditions are often diagnosed at late stages, resulting in irreversible lung damage and diminished work capacity. Methods: A scoping review was performed using the Arksey and O’Malley framework, with methodological refinements from the Joanna Briggs Institute. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus, and gray literature for publications from 2014 to 2024. After screening 1761 records and full-text review, nine studies were included in the final synthesis, comprising two systematic reviews, two narrative literature reviews, and five observational studies. Results: Key risk factors identified included prolonged exposure to silica and coal dust, tobacco use, and genetic susceptibility. Diagnostic delays were attributed to the underuse of high-resolution CT and exhaled nitric oxide analysis. Several studies highlighted the diagnostic value of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α). Nutritional rehabilitation and polyphenol-enriched herbal therapies were associated with improved respiratory function and quality of life. However, these strategies remain underutilized, particularly in low-resource settings. Conclusions: A coordinated, biomarker-driven approach integrating early diagnosis, dust exposure control, and tailored rehabilitation is urgently needed. Multidisciplinary models may reduce the clinical and socioeconomic burden of OBPDs. Full article

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17 pages, 1802 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diagnostic Efficacy of C-Reactive Protein in Differentiating Various Causes of Exudative Pleural Effusion: Disease Research Should Not Be Exclusive to the Wealthy

by Majed Odeh, Yana Kogan and Edmond Sabo

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040029 - 5 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Background and Objectives: Discrimination between various causes of exudative pleural effusion (PE) remains a major clinical challenge, and to date, definitive biochemical markers for this discrimination remain lacking. An increasing number of studies have reported that serum C-reactive protein (CRPs), pleural fluid [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Discrimination between various causes of exudative pleural effusion (PE) remains a major clinical challenge, and to date, definitive biochemical markers for this discrimination remain lacking. An increasing number of studies have reported that serum C-reactive protein (CRPs), pleural fluid CRP (CRPpf), and CRPpf/CRPs ratio (CRPr) are useful for the differential diagnosis of exudative PE; however, their efficacy rate is not similar in these studies. The majority of these studies were conducted on small groups of subjects, and the efficacy of the gradient between CRPs and CRPpf (CRPg—calculated as CRPs—CRPpf) in this differentiation has not been previously investigated. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy rate of CRPs, CRPpf, CRPg, and CRPr in the differential diagnoses of various causes of exudative PE in a relatively large cohort of patients. Materials and Methods: The research group included 282 subjects with exudative PE—146 had parapneumonic effusion (PPE), 126 had malignant pleural effusion (MPE), and 10 had tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE). The values are presented as mean ± SD. Results: The mean CRPs level was significantly higher in the PPE group compared to the MPE group (p < 0.0001) and the TPE group (p < 0.001), and also significantly higher in the TPE group than in the MPE group (p = 0.0009). Similarly, the mean CRPpf level was significantly higher in the PPE group than in the MPE group (p < 0.0001) and the TPE group (p = 0.04), and also significantly higher in the TPE group than in the MPE group (p < 0.0001). The mean CRPg level was significantly higher in the PPE group than in both the MPE group (p < 0.0001) and the TPE group (p < 0.002). The mean CRPr level did not differ significantly among these groups of exudate. Conclusions: CRPs, CRPpf, and CRPg are effective in the differential diagnosis of exudative PE, while CRPr was not effective in this regard. The main limitation of this study is that the sample size of the TPE group is very small. Full article

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12 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tobacco-Free Schools in Practice: Policy Presence and Enforcement in Baltimore Schools

by Chidubem Egboluche, Rifath Ara Alam Barsha, Shervin Assari, Michelle Mercure, Marc Laveau, Oluwatosin Olateju and Payam Sheikhattari

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040028 - 5 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Background: School-based tobacco control policies are critical for preventing youth tobacco use. While many districts adopt formal policies to create smoke- and vape-free environments, the degree to which these policies are enforced at the school level may vary, influencing their effectiveness. Little is [...] Read more.

Background: School-based tobacco control policies are critical for preventing youth tobacco use. While many districts adopt formal policies to create smoke- and vape-free environments, the degree to which these policies are enforced at the school level may vary, influencing their effectiveness. Little is known about how consistently such policies are implemented across schools within urban school districts. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the existence and enforcement of school-level tobacco control policies in an urban public school system, using Baltimore City schools as a case example. Methods: We conducted a survey of school personnel from 20 high schools in Baltimore City in 2024. The survey instrument assessed the presence and enforcement of policies related to tobacco use prevention, communication, signage, disciplinary actions, and institutional support. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were used to summarize responses. Spearman correlations were also used for bivariate correlations. Additional school-level and neighborhood-level contextual data were collected from the internet (neighborhood socioeconomic status and school performance). Results: While many policies existed across the 20 participating schools, their enforcement was widely inconsistent. Most schools reported the existence of policies prohibiting tobacco use in school buildings (60%) and vehicles (55%). However, few schools had visible tobacco-free signage (35%) or offered cessation programs (15%). Communication of policies to students (70%) and staff (65%) was the most commonly enforced aspect of tobacco control policies. Conclusions: Findings suggest that while tobacco control policies may be adopted across urban school systems, their enforcement at the school level remains uneven. Greater attention may be needed to support policy implementation and to reduce variability in school-level practices. Baltimore City serves as a useful case study to understand these challenges and identify opportunities for strengthening school-based tobacco prevention efforts. Full article

13 pages, 1397 KiB

Open AccessArticle

RSPH4A-PCDx: An Index to Predict Lung Function Decline in Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia

by Gabriel Román-Ríos, Gabriel Rosario-Ortiz, Marcos J. Ramos-Benitez, Ricardo A. Mosquera and Wilfredo De Jesús-Rojas

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040027 - 2 Aug 2025

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Abstract

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare, genetically heterogeneous disorder that impairs mucociliary clearance and leads to progressive lung disease. This study aimed to characterize lung function decline in a genetically homogeneous cohort of Puerto Rican patients with RSPH4A-associated PCD and to [...] Read more.

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare, genetically heterogeneous disorder that impairs mucociliary clearance and leads to progressive lung disease. This study aimed to characterize lung function decline in a genetically homogeneous cohort of Puerto Rican patients with RSPH4A-associated PCD and to develop a clinical tool to predict lung function decline and support transplant referral decisions. We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients (n = 25) with a confirmed RSPH4A [c.921+3_6delAAGT] genetic variant, collecting longitudinal spirometry data and applying linear regressions to calculate each patient’s individual FEV₁ decline. The median FEV₁ at diagnosis was 55%, with a median annual decline of −0.75% predicted. Adults exhibited significantly lower lung function compared to pediatric patients, while no difference was seen between males and females. Based on this observed decline, we developed the Predicted Capacity Decline Index (PCDx), an index that estimates the age and time until a patient reaches the 30% FEV₁ threshold, the point at which lung transplant referral is typically considered. Our findings underscore the need for early intervention and suggest that genotype-specific tools like the PCDx may enhance clinical decision-making in managing progressive lung disease in PCD. Full article

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11 pages, 254 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Individual Variability and Temporal Fluctuations in Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Levels in Healthy Individuals

by Emi Yuda, Tomoki Ando, Yukihiro Ishida, Hiroyuki Sakano and Yutaka Yoshida

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040026 - 21 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Measurement of nitric oxide (NO) concentration in exhaled breath (FeNO) is a quantitative, non-invasive, simple, and safe method for assessing airway inflammation. It serves as a complementary tool to other methods for evaluating airway diseases. However, little is known about the typical NO [...] Read more.

Measurement of nitric oxide (NO) concentration in exhaled breath (FeNO) is a quantitative, non-invasive, simple, and safe method for assessing airway inflammation. It serves as a complementary tool to other methods for evaluating airway diseases. However, little is known about the typical NO levels in healthy individuals, including individual differences and the influence of measurement timing. Therefore, this study classified measurement times into four periods and statistically analyzed NO levels in healthy individuals. The mean values among groups were compared using repeated measures ANOVA on six participants. The analysis showed large individual variations in NO levels, resulting in no significant difference (p = 0.29). Notably, greater fluctuations were observed in the morning. These findings align with previous studies suggesting the influence of circadian rhythms and the redundancy of repeated measurements. This study highlights the need to consider timing and individual variability when using FeNO as a physiological marker in healthy populations. Full article

11 pages, 655 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparison of Impulse Oscillometry and Spirometry by Percent Predicted in Identifying Uncontrolled Asthma

by Chalerm Liwsrisakun, Chaicharn Pothirat, Athavudh Deesomchok, Pilaiporn Duangjit and Warawut Chaiwong

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040025 - 18 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Background: The role of impulse oscillometry (IOS) in evaluating asthma control remains a challenge because the interpretation varies by many factors, including ethnicity. We aimed to assess the diagnostic contribution of spirometry and IOS, established from reference equations, in the detection of uncontrolled [...] Read more.

Background: The role of impulse oscillometry (IOS) in evaluating asthma control remains a challenge because the interpretation varies by many factors, including ethnicity. We aimed to assess the diagnostic contribution of spirometry and IOS, established from reference equations, in the detection of uncontrolled asthma. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in adult asthma subjects with normal spirometry. Uncontrolled asthma was defined as an Asthma Control Test (ACT) score ≤ 19. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to compare the diagnostic abilities of the %-predicted of heterogeneity of resistance at 5 Hz and 20 Hz (R5-R20) and the %-predicted of forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV₁) in detecting uncontrolled asthma. Multivariable risk regressions were performed to identify the %-predicted of R5-R20 as a predictor for uncontrolled asthma. Results: The %-predicted of R5-R20 demonstrated a superior diagnostic ability for detecting uncontrolled asthma compared to the %-predicted FEV₁, with the area under the ROC curves (AuROC) = 0.939 vs. 0.712, respectively, p < 0.001. The %-predicted R5R20 of ≥200 showed the highest AuROC for detecting uncontrolled asthma with an adjusted risk ratio of 10.86 (95%CI; 3.77, 31.29; p < 0.001). Conclusions: IOS demonstrated better diagnostic ability for detecting uncontrolled asthma than spirometry. Full article

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17 pages, 3718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacological Immunomodulation via Collagen–Polyvinylpyrrolidone or Pirfenidone Plays a Role in the Recovery of Patients with Severe COVID-19 Through Similar Mechanisms of Action Involving the JAK/STAT Signalling Pathway: A Pilot Study

by Hugo Mendieta-Zerón, Esteban Cruz-Arenas, Salvador Díaz-Meza, Alejandro Cabrera-Wrooman, Edna Ayerim Mandujano-Tinoco, Rosa M. Salgado, Hugo Tovar, Daniel Muñiz-García, Laura Julieta Orozco-Castañeda, Sonia Hernández-Enríquez, Miriam Deyanira Rodríguez-Piña, Ana Sarahí Mulia-Soto, José Meneses-Calderón, Paul Mondragón-Terán and Edgar Krötzsch

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040024 - 18 Jul 2025

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Abstract

The therapeutic target of COVID-19 is focused on controlling inflammation and preventing fibrosis. Collagen–polyvinylpyrrolidone (collagen-PVP) and pirfenidone both have the ability to control the cytokine storm observed in rheumatic and fibrotic disorders. In this work, our aim was to understand the benefits of [...] Read more.

The therapeutic target of COVID-19 is focused on controlling inflammation and preventing fibrosis. Collagen–polyvinylpyrrolidone (collagen-PVP) and pirfenidone both have the ability to control the cytokine storm observed in rheumatic and fibrotic disorders. In this work, our aim was to understand the benefits of treatment with each of these drugs in patients with severe COVID-19. In total, 36 patients were treated with dexamethasone and enoxaparin, but 26 were allocated collagen-PVP or pirfenidone (n = 15 and 11, respectively); the clinical and metabolic effects were compared among them. Since pirfenidone works via transcriptional mechanisms, we performed a human genome microarray assay using RNA isolated from fibroblast and monocyte cultures treated with the biodrug, with the aim of hypothesising a possible mechanism of action for collagen-PVP. Our results showed that hospital stay duration, quick COVID-19 severity index (qCSI), and admission to the intensive care unit were statistically significantly lower (p < 0.02) in patients treated with collagen-PVP or pirfenidone when compared with the control group, and that only collagen-PVP normalised serum glucose at discharge. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed that the cell cycle, inflammation, and cell surface–extracellular matrix interactions could be regulated with collagen-PVP via the downmodulation of proinflammatory cytokines, while Th2 anti-inflammatory response signalling could be upregulated. Furthermore, the downregulation of some of the genes involved in nitric oxide production showed a possible control for JAK in the IFN-γ pathway, allowing for the possibility of controlling inflammation through the JAK/STAT pathway, as has been observed for pirfenidone and other immunomodulators, such as ruxolitinib. Full article

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18 pages, 797 KiB

Open AccessReview

Impact of Invasive Mechanical Ventilation on the Lung Microbiome

by Jose Luis Estela-Zape, Valeria Sanclemente-Cardoza, Maria Alejandra Espinosa-Cifuentes and Leidy Tatiana Ordoñez-Mora

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040023 - 1 Jul 2025

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Abstract

The lung microbiota is integral to maintaining microenvironmental homeostasis, influencing immune regulation, host defense against pathogens, and overall respiratory health. The dynamic interplay among the lung microbiota emphasizes their significance in shaping the respiratory milieu and potential impact on diverse pulmonary affections. This [...] Read more.

The lung microbiota is integral to maintaining microenvironmental homeostasis, influencing immune regulation, host defense against pathogens, and overall respiratory health. The dynamic interplay among the lung microbiota emphasizes their significance in shaping the respiratory milieu and potential impact on diverse pulmonary affections. This investigation aimed to identify the effects of invasive mechanical ventilation on the lung microbiome. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted with registration number CRD42023461618, based on a search of PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases, in line with the PRISMA guidelines. To achieve this, “(mechanical ventilation) AND (microbiota)” was used as the search term, replicable across all databases. The closing date of the search was 12 March 2025, and the evidence was scored using the MINORS scale. Results: A total of 16 studies were included, with patients aged 13.6 months to 76 years, predominantly male (64.2%). Common ICU admission diagnoses requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) included pneumonia, acute respiratory failure, and COVID-19. IMV was associated with reduced lung microbiota diversity and an increased prevalence of pathogenic bacteria, including Prevotella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. The most frequently used antibiotics were cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and penicillins. IMV-induced pulmonary dysbiosis correlated with higher infection risk and mortality, particularly in pneumonia and COVID-19 cases. Factors such as antimicrobial therapy, enteral nutrition, and systemic inflammation contributed to these alterations. Conclusions: Invasive mechanical ventilation has been associated with the development of alterations in the respiratory microbiome, resulting in reduced diversity of lung microorganisms. Full article

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15 pages, 588 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Imaging and Laboratory Results as Predictors of the Course of COVID-19

by Ewelina Tobiczyk, Hanna Maria Winiarska, Daria Springer, Aleksandra Ludziejewska, Ewa Wysocka, Szymon Skoczyński and Szczepan Cofta

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040022 - 1 Jul 2025

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Abstract

Background: COVID-19 most often affects the respiratory system and may manifest as acute respiratory failure requiring the use of non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS). The aim of this study was to find predictors based on laboratory results and chest computed tomography (CT) scans performed [...] Read more.

Background: COVID-19 most often affects the respiratory system and may manifest as acute respiratory failure requiring the use of non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS). The aim of this study was to find predictors based on laboratory results and chest computed tomography (CT) scans performed on admission to the hospital indicating the need for NIRS and predicting mortality after hospital discharge. Methods: We retrospectively analysed data from consecutive patients hospitalised in the Pulmonology Department of the Temporary COVID Hospital in Poznan from 1 February 2021 to 31 March 2022. Upon admission to the department, the patients underwent a series of laboratory blood tests and high-resolution chest CT scan. Results: The study group included 282 patients, with an average age of 60.0 ± 15.0 years. In total, 54 (53%) patients of 101 requiring NIRS died from various causes or required intubation. Patients who required NIRS were significantly older and had more severe changes in the lung parenchyma. They had higher white blood cell and neutrophil counts and lower lymphocyte counts, as well as higher concentrations of D-dimer, CRP, PCT, and IL-6 and greater activities of LDH and AST. Conclusions: Laboratory tests and chest CT performed on hospital admission may be useful to rapidly identify patients at higher risk for severe disease. Full article

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20 pages, 1384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Comparative Effectiveness of Mepolizumab and Benralizumab in the Treatment of Eosinophilic Asthma

by Aleksandra Niemiec-Górska, Olga Branicka, Paula Olszewska, Sylwia Mielcarska, Joanna Glück, Barbara Rymarczyk and Radosław Gawlik

Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040021 - 20 Jun 2025

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Abstract

Background: Severe asthma is associated with significant morbidity and risk of complications. Some patients, suffering from eosinophilic asthma, may benefit from biological therapies, especially anti IL-5 (anti-interleukin-5). The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy evaluation of mepolizumab and benralizumab in [...] Read more.

Background: Severe asthma is associated with significant morbidity and risk of complications. Some patients, suffering from eosinophilic asthma, may benefit from biological therapies, especially anti IL-5 (anti-interleukin-5). The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy evaluation of mepolizumab and benralizumab in the treatment of eosinophilic asthma. Methods: A retrospective, single-centre study including 59 patients with severe eosinophilic asthma treated with biologics (mepolizumab and benralizumab). Clinical outcomes, including peripheral blood morphotic characteristics, spirometry parameters, asthma control questionnaire (ACQ), mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (mini-AQLQ) scores, daily oral corticosteroid use, body mass index, exacerbation rate, and exercise tolerance, were examined at the beginning and after 6 months of biological treatment. Results: A total of 38 patients were treated with mepolizumab and 21 with benralizumab. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) in eosinophil count, required daily dose of glucocorticoids, ACQ, mini-AQLQ scores, and exacerbation rate were observed in both groups after six months of treatment. There was no statistical difference (p < 0.05) in the abovementioned parameters between the groups. Conclusions: In patients with severe eosinophilic asthma, mepolizumab and benralizumab were associated with significant improvements in clinical state. Patients with type 2 asthma will benefit from the therapy with both anti-IL5 biologic drugs. Full article

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Adv. Respir. Med., Volume 93, Issue 4 (August 2025) – 11 articles

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