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[From acute viral bronchiolitis in infancy to asthma in childhood]
1Clinique médicale infantile (Pr R Gilly), centre hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Pierre-Bénite, France.
Insights
Viral infections causing bronchiolitis in infants can lead to chronic obstructive airway disease, including asthma and bronchitis. Early prevention strategies are crucial to mitigate long-term pulmonary sequelae.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric respiratory infections
- Pulmonary disease development
Context:
- Bronchiolitis and wheezy bronchitis are common in infants, often linked to viral respiratory infections.
- These conditions are significant in the development of chronic obstructive airway disease (COPD) in both children and adults.
Purpose:
- To explore the link between viral infections, wheezing illnesses, and the development of long-term pulmonary conditions.
- To investigate the unclear pathogenic mechanisms of virus-induced wheezing and its sequelae.
Summary:
- Viral infections in infancy, causing bronchiolitis, are associated with an increased risk of recurrent wheezing, asthma, and chronic bronchitis.
- The exact mechanisms linking viruses to airway hyperreactivity and long-term lung damage remain unclear.
- The study highlights the importance of considering viral triggers for wheezing and implementing preventive measures early.
Impact:
- Emphasizes the need for early intervention and prevention strategies for infant bronchiolitis to reduce the risk of chronic respiratory diseases.
- Underscores the significance of understanding viral-induced airway inflammation for long-term respiratory health outcomes.
Abstract:
Bronchiolitis and wheezy bronchitis are frequently associated with viral infection of the respiratory tract in infants. They play an important role in the natural history of chronic obstructive airway disease, not only in children, but also in adults. The risk of early recurrent wheezing and subsequent asthma or chronic bronchitis (with anatomical sequelae such as obliterans bronchiolitis) is significant. The precise pathogenic mechanisms of virus-induced wheezing and its sequelae are not clear. Whether airway hyperreactivity is inherited and airway hyperreactivity is present prior to, or is the result of bronchiolitis is not clear. Nevertheless the evidence for viral trigger of wheezing and long-term pulmonary sequelae must be considered and prevention must be undertaken at the first episode.