PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Reinier R.L. Wener AU - Elisabeth H. Bel TI - Severe refractory asthma: an update AID - 10.1183/09059180.00001913 DP - 2013 Sep 01 TA - European Respiratory Review PG - 227--235 VI - 22 IP - 129 4099 - http://err.ersjournals.com/content/22/129/227.short 4100 - http://err.ersjournals.com/content/22/129/227.full SO - EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW2013 Sep 01; 22 AB - Asthma is a heterogeneous disease in which adequate asthma control cannot be achieved in a substantial proportion despite currently available treatment possibilities. This subgroup has been defined as “severe refractory” asthma. Over the past years considerable progress has been made regarding a more exact definition of severe refractory asthma. A systematic approach to evaluate the asthma patient has been postulated. Further detailed classification into distinct phenotypes is ongoing to target the right treatment to the right patient. And, new therapeutic targeted treatment options are currently in development to provide possible new targets to improve disease state, symptoms and quality of life. This review will provide an update on the latest advancements with regard to all these domains.