NCIt definition : An acute exacerbation of asthma, characterized by inadequate response to initial bronchodilators.;
Alternative definition : NICHD: An acute exacerbation of asthma, characterized by an inadequate response to
the initial use of bronchodilators and the progressive worsening of bronchial obstruction
and shortness of breath, which can result in the need for mechanical ventilation and/or
possibly death.;