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1Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, New York Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA. heathj@mskcc.org
Insights
Asthma is a common cause of pediatric emergency department visits for shortness of breath. While diagnosis is often straightforward, consider other conditions for atypical presentations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric emergency medicine
- Respiratory diseases
Background:
- Asthma is the leading cause of emergency department visits for pediatric shortness of breath.
- Diagnosis typically involves atopy history, physical exam for reactive airways disease, and bronchodilator response.
Observation:
- Most asthma diagnoses in children are clinically straightforward.
- Atypical presentations or unexplained findings warrant consideration of differential diagnoses.
Findings:
- Standard diagnostic criteria for asthma are effective in most pediatric cases.
- Unusual presentations necessitate a broader diagnostic approach.
Implications:
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for alternative diagnoses in pediatric respiratory distress.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and improved patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Asthma is the most common reason for children to present to an emergency department complaining of shortness of breath. The diagnosis, based on one or more of a positive history of atopy, physical examination findings consistent with reactive airways disease, and a clinical response to bronchodilator therapy is usually straightforward. It is important however, to consider other diagnoses, particularly when patients present differently from that which has previously been documented and/or have unexplained physical findings.
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