BPTs were performed in cross-over fashion, at 2-4day intervals. Cumulative doses eliciting 20% FEV1fall (PD20FEV1), diagnostic performance and adverse events were compared. Patients with PD20FEV1 lower than geometric mean were defined as responders, otherwise poor responders. Patients with uncontrolled and partly controlled asthma, who maintained their original inhaled corticosteroids therapy, underwent reassessment of airway responsiveness and asthmatic symptoms 3 and 6 months after.