European, North American, and Australian researchers compile many of the important methodologies and protocols for assessing inflammation in human airways. They begin with techniques for collecting samples as airways liquids, sputum, or exhaled gases; and for using them to isolate and characterize cells or to measure markers of inflammation. To appeal to both novice and veteran researchers, they combine specialized chapters on such topics as tracing intracellular mediator storage, with more general chapters such as on Northern blotting. They include tips and nuances along with the recipes, and sometimes color figures.