Which of the following is a classic symptom of NSAID or aspirin-induced bronchospasm?

Study for the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

A classic symptom of NSAID or aspirin-induced bronchospasm is wheezing and asthma. This condition is also known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) or aspirin-induced asthma. In susceptible individuals, the ingestion of NSAIDs or aspirin can lead to bronchospasm, which manifests as wheezing, shortness of breath, and other respiratory symptoms.

The mechanism behind this involves the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes by NSAIDs, which decreases the production of prostaglandins, leading to an increased production of leukotrienes. These leukotrienes can cause bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing.

While gastric pain, skin rashes, and dyspnea during exercise can occur due to various conditions or other drug side effects, they are not specifically associated with the bronchospasm induced by NSAIDs or aspirin. The primary concern in this context is the respiratory response, which is highlighted by wheezing and symptoms of asthma.

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