Some clinico-epidemiological aspect of bronchiolitis among infants and young children--a hospital based study

P K Das1, J B Saha, K Basu

  • 1Dept. of Pacd. Medicine, N.B. Medical College, Darjeeling.

Insights

This study found that 4.65% of pediatric cases were bronchiolitis, with low birth weight, malnutrition, and non-immunization being key risk factors for severe illness. Nebulized salbutamol showed a 70% positive response in infants aged 6-12 months.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Respiratory Medicine
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory infection in infants.
  • Understanding its epidemiology and risk factors is crucial for effective management.
  • Previous studies have highlighted various contributing factors, but regional data is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the proportional case rate of bronchiolitis in a pediatric population.
  • To identify the clinical and epidemiological features associated with bronchiolitis.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of nebulized salbutamol in treating children with bronchiolitis.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective hospital-based study conducted over one year.
  • Inclusion criteria: children with a clinical diagnosis of bronchiolitis.
  • Data collection included patient demographics, clinical presentation, risk factors, and response to treatment.

Main Results:

  • The proportional case rate of bronchiolitis was found to be 4.65%.
  • Significant risk factors for severe bronchiolitis included low birth weight/prematurity (51.11%), malnutrition (40%), non-immunization (55.55%), and non-breastfeeding practices (48.88%).
  • Nebulized salbutamol demonstrated a high response rate (70%) in children aged 6 to 12 months.

Conclusions:

  • Bronchiolitis represents a notable proportion of pediatric cases, with specific identifiable risk factors.
  • Early identification and intervention for risk factors like prematurity, malnutrition, and incomplete immunization are vital.
  • Nebulized salbutamol appears to be an effective treatment option, particularly for infants between 6 and 12 months of age.

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