What is the significance of Curschmann's spirals in medical diagnosis?

Curschmann's spirals are mucus plugs that are typically observed in the sputum of individuals who have bronchial asthma. These spirals are formed by the secretion of bronchial mucus and represent sloughed epithelial cells and mucus that coalesce into corkscrew-shaped strands. The presence of Curschmann's spirals is significant in medical diagnosis as they provide a pathophysiological marker associated with the hyperreactivity and inflammation of the bronchial passages, which are characteristic features of asthma.

Therefore, when Curschmann's spirals are identified in a patient’s sputum, they strongly suggest underlying asthma, as they indicate that the airways are producing excess mucus due to inflammation and bronchoconstriction. This finding can help differentiate asthma from other respiratory conditions, leading to more targeted treatment plans.