Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
14:39

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma

Published on: November 4, 2010

[Gastroesophageal reflux disease presenting as severe bronchial asthma in an 18 months old child]

Jacek Brodzicki1, Wanda Bako, Piotr Czauderna

  • 1Klinika Pediatrii, Gastroenterologii i Onkologii, Dziecieca Akademia Medyczna, 80-803 Gdańsk, Poland.

Medycyna Wieku Rozwojowego
|April 26, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Gastro-esophageal reflux can cause bronchospasm in children. Consider reflux diagnostics for asthma cases unresponsive to standard treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) is a known trigger for bronchospasm in children, including those with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and healthy respiratory systems.
  • Asthma management in children often involves addressing respiratory symptoms, but the link to GER may be overlooked.

Observation:

  • A case study involved a child initially diagnosed with severe asthma.
  • This child's respiratory symptoms resolved completely after surgical treatment for gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Findings:

  • The patient's severe asthma symptoms were found to be secondary to undiagnosed GERD.
  • Surgical intervention for GERD led to a full remission of respiratory issues, suggesting a misdiagnosis.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering GERD in pediatric patients presenting with asthma-like symptoms.
  • Diagnostic evaluation for GERD should be considered for children with asthma that is resistant to conventional therapies.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis of GERD can prevent unnecessary asthma treatments and improve patient outcomes.

Related Concept Videos

Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations01:13

Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
Asthma I: Introduction01:28

Asthma I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
Asthma-I: Introduction01:29

Asthma-I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease01:25

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the backward flow of stomach contents (acid, pepsin, or bile) into the esophagus, causing mucosal inflammation known as esophagitis. It results from failure of antireflux mechanisms, mainly the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), influenced by mechanical and physiological factors.Etiology and Risk FactorsGERD develops when LES function is weakened or when intra-abdominal pressure increases. Risk factors include aging, obesity, and sliding hiatal hernia,...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management01:29

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a persistent medical condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Its clinical manifestations can vary greatly, making diagnosis and management challenging for healthcare professionals. The following is a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, assessment, and management strategies for GERD.
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications01:24

Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications

Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma