Abstract
Significant advances have been made on the pathogenetic and therapeutic aspects of bronchial asthma over the last few years. Immunologically triggered mediator release is apparently modulated by cAMP and cGMP, the intracellular level of which is, in turn, primarily determined by the status of the autonomic nervous system. These developments, together with accumulating data on bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of old and new drugs, have brought about a more rational and effective management of asthma in children.