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Updated: Jul 28, 2026

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
[Severe acute asthma in the child]
J P Piva1, S F Canani, P M Pitrez
1Pontifícia Universidade Católica (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
Insights
Severe acute asthma in children requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent respiratory failure. Early intervention with oxygen, bronchodilators, and steroids significantly improves patient outcomes and reduces mortality.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
- Critical Care
Background:
- Severe acute asthma is a significant cause of childhood morbidity.
- It frequently leads to respiratory failure if not managed promptly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a current review on the diagnosis and treatment of severe acute asthma.
- To synthesize findings from reviewed literature and author experience.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of relevant publications.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Diagnostic methods include clinical manifestations and lung function tests.
- Established treatments involve oxygen, bronchodilators, and steroids.
- These interventions are crucial for a favorable prognosis.
Conclusions:
- Severe acute asthma is common in pediatric emergency and intensive care settings.
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for reducing severe morbidity and mortality rates.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To present a current review about diagnosis and treatment of severe acute asthma, based on the reviewed publications and the authorś personal experience. METHODS: We reviewed the most relevant articles about diagnosis and management of severe acute asthma. RESULTS: Severe acute asthma is an important cause of morbidity in children and it can usually lead to respiratory failure. The diagnostic (clinical manifestations and lung function tests) and treatment (oxygen, bronchodilators and steroids) are now well determined by the literature, and are very important for a good prognosis of every patient. CONCLUSIONS: Considering severe acute asthma a prevalent condition in pediatric emergency room and intensive care unit, the ability to make an early diagnosis of this condition, associated with a prompt treatment, are essential for an effective reduction in morbimortality rates.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Classification of Asthma
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

