FeNO (Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide) Test

A simple, non-invasive breathing test that helps assess eosinophilic airway inflammation, commonly seen in asthma and other inflammatory respiratory conditions.

Home FeNO

FeNO Testing

FeNO (Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide) testing is a non-invasive breathing test used to measure eosinophilic airway inflammation. It provides additional clinical information to support the diagnosis and management of asthma and other inflammatory respiratory conditions.

Manse Medical offers FeNO testing using the Bosch Vivatmo Pro, a validated point-of-care device that delivers rapid, reliable results during your consultation.

FeNO testing is available at our Ballarat, Sunshine and Warrnambool clinics.

 

What Is FeNO Testing?

FeNO stands for Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide. Nitric oxide is a naturally occurring gas produced in the airways. When the airways are inflamed, particularly in eosinophilic asthma, nitric oxide levels increase.

Measuring the concentration of nitric oxide in exhaled breath provides an objective marker of airway inflammation.

FeNO testing complements other respiratory assessments, such as:

  • Spirometry

  • Bronchodilator responsiveness testing

  • Clinical history and symptom assessment

It does not replace these tests but adds clinically useful information when inflammation is suspected.

 

When Is FeNO Testing Recommended?

FeNO testing may be considered in patients with:

  • Suspected asthma

  • Chronic or unexplained cough

  • Wheeze or shortness of breath

  • Poorly controlled asthma

  • Recurrent exacerbations

  • Unclear response to inhaled corticosteroid therapy

FeNO measurement can help determine whether airway inflammation is present and whether it is likely to respond to corticosteroid treatment.

 

How FeNO Testing Supports Asthma Diagnosis and Management

FeNO testing may assist clinicians to:

  • Support a diagnosis of eosinophilic asthma

  • Distinguish inflammatory asthma from non-inflammatory causes of symptoms

  • Guide decisions regarding initiation or adjustment of inhaled corticosteroids

  • Monitor response to anti-inflammatory therapy

  • Assess treatment adherence in selected cases

Results are interpreted in the context of your overall clinical assessment.

 

What to Expect During a FeNO Test

FeNO testing is:

  • Quick, usually completed within a few minutes

  • Non-invasive

  • Safe and well-tolerated

During the test, you will be asked to inhale deeply and then exhale slowly into a handheld mouthpiece. The device measures nitric oxide levels in your breath and provides an immediate reading.

Your respiratory physician will discuss the results with you during your appointment.

 

FeNO Testing at Manse Medical

Manse Medical uses the FeNO device designed for clinical use. Its point-of-care capability allows results to be obtained during your consultation, supporting timely clinical decision-making.

FeNO testing is available at:

  • Ballarat

  • Sunshine

  • Warrnambool

Testing is performed as part of a comprehensive respiratory assessment when clinically indicated.

 

Do I Need a Referral?

FeNO testing can be arranged in two ways:

FeNO Test Only (No Specialist Consultation)

Your GP may refer you for FeNO testing alone without a consultation with a respiratory specialist.

In this case, the test is performed at Manse Medical, and the results are forwarded directly to your GP for ongoing management.

Respiratory Specialist Consultation

If you would like to see one of our respiratory physicians and be eligible to claim Medicare benefits for your appointment, you will need a valid referral from your GP.

During your consultation, your specialist may recommend additional tests as part of your assessment. This may include FeNO testing, which helps provide further information about your airway inflammation and breathing health.

 

If you are experiencing persistent cough, breathlessness, wheeze, or difficulty controlling asthma symptoms, we recommend speaking with your GP to determine the most appropriate pathway for your care.

 

Book an Appointment

To arrange a consultation at our Ballarat, Sunshine or Warrnambool clinics, please contact Manse Medical or ask your GP to send a referral.

Our team provides comprehensive diagnostic testing and evidence-based management for a wide range of sleep and respiratory conditions.

This information is intended as a guide only. Information specific to you as an individual should be sought from your family doctor or respiratory specialist.

Respiratory Tests

Contact Us