What is curschmann spiral?

Curschmann spirals are tiny, twisted structures that are sometimes found in the sputum of people with certain respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchiectasis. They are named after German physician Adolph Curschmann, who first described them in the late 19th century.

Curschmann spirals are made up of mucus and cellular debris. They typically have a central core of mucus surrounded by a helical structure of epithelial cells, leukocytes, and other cellular components. They are believed to form when mucus becomes too thick and sticky, causing it to become trapped in the airways and form these spiral-shaped structures.

Curschmann spirals are often seen under a microscope during examination of sputum samples. While they are not diagnostic of any specific condition, their presence can provide clues to the underlying respiratory problem. For example, they may suggest that a person has asthma, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Treatment for conditions associated with Curschmann spirals typically involves managing the underlying respiratory problem, such as using bronchodilators or corticosteroids to relieve inflammation and improve breathing. In severe cases, hospitalization and more aggressive treatments may be necessary.