Cough Reflex Hypersensitivity as a Key Treatable Trait

Song, Woo Jung; Manian, Deepti Vellaichamy; Kim, Yeonhee; Zhang, Mengru; Morice, Alyn H.

Abstract

Cough reflex hypersensitivity is emerging as a key treatable trait in chronic cough and other cough-associated respiratory conditions. This review examines the neurological basis of cough, highlighting the complex interplay between peripheral and central mechanisms. The concept of cough hypersensitivity aims to address unmet clinical needs by recognizing chronic cough as a distinct disorder rather than merely a symptom. Evidence from clinical trials supports cough hypersensitivity as a treatable trait in chronic cough, with opiates, gabapentinoids, and novel P2X3 antagonists showing efficacy. Cough hypersensitivity is also relevant in conditions presenting with persistent cough, such as asthma, bronchiectasis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, though more research is needed. Recognizing cough reflex hypersensitivity as a treatable trait offers new avenues for management, particularly for patients with persistent cough despite etiology-targeted therapies. We propose redefining chronic cough as a distinct disease entity in which cough hypersensitivity is a common feature and key therapeutic target, potentially leading to better patient care and the development of novel therapies.

Citation

Song, W. J., Manian, D. V., Kim, Y., Zhang, M., & Morice, A. H. (in press). Cough Reflex Hypersensitivity as a Key Treatable Trait. The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaip.2024.10.046

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 28, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Nov 16, 2024
• Deposit Date: Dec 24, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 17, 2025
• Journal: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
• Print ISSN: 2213-2198
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaip.2024.10.046
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4966534