A decrease in exhaled nitric oxide concentration (FENO) in an asthma patient would indicate increased use of?

A decrease in exhaled nitric oxide concentration (FENO) in an asthma patient suggests reduced inflammation within the airways. Corticosteroids are known to have a potent anti-inflammatory effect and are a cornerstone of asthma management. By modulating the immune response and reducing airway inflammation, corticosteroids effectively lower levels of inflammatory markers, including nitric oxide.

In asthma management, increased FENO levels typically indicate airway inflammation related to asthma exacerbations. Therefore, a decrease in FENO levels after a patient has been using corticosteroids can reflect an improvement in their condition, signifying effective control of inflammation. This is consistent with the role of corticosteroids in reducing inflammation that contributes to asthma symptoms.

The other options are not directly correlated with significant changes in FENO levels as corticosteroids. While beta-agonists can provide immediate relief of bronchospasms, they do not have a direct anti-inflammatory effect and typically do not cause a decrease in FENO. Leukotriene modifiers can also have some impact on inflammation but are generally less effective than corticosteroids for reducing nitric oxide levels. Antibiotics address bacterial infections and do not primarily influence airway inflammation related to asthma in the same way that corticosteroids do.