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Acute asthma in emergency room
1Department of Pediatrics, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India. chughk@bol.net.in
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|June 6, 2003
Summary
Pediatric acute asthmatic exacerbations are often triggered by viral infections. Effective management includes inhaled medications, early systemic steroids, and considering intravenous options for severe cases, guided by close patient monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric emergency medicine
- Respiratory medicine
- Critical care
Background:
- Acute asthmatic exacerbation is a frequent pediatric emergency.
- Viral infections are primary triggers of airway inflammation in children.
- GINA 2002 guidelines provide a framework for severity assessment and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current management strategies for acute pediatric asthma exacerbations.
- To highlight effective therapeutic options and monitoring techniques.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence supporting various treatment modalities.
- Discussion of GINA 2002 guidelines for pediatric asthma management.
- Emphasis on monitoring clinical parameters, pulse oximetry, blood gases, and peak flow.
Main Results:
- Metered-dose inhalers with spacers are as effective as nebulized beta-2 agonists.
- Ipratropium bromide enhances short-acting beta-2 agonist efficacy.
- Early systemic steroids, intravenous beta-2 agonists, and magnesium sulfate are recommended for non-responders.
Conclusions:
- Prompt initiation of systemic steroids and consideration of advanced therapies like intravenous aminophylline in PICU settings are crucial.
- Continuous monitoring is essential for adjusting treatment intensity.
- Non-conventional treatments like ketamine require careful, monitored administration.