Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2026
Murine Model of Allergen Induced Asthma
Published on: May 14, 2012
[Asthma in children - is it different?]
1Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein,Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Deutschland. herting@paedia.ukl.mu-luebeck.de
Insights
Childhood asthma, a growing chronic respiratory condition, involves airway obstruction and inflammation. Early diagnosis relies on history and examination, as lung function tests are limited in young children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Respiratory Medicine
- Immunology
Context:
- Childhood asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory disease with increasing incidence globally.
- Key pathophysiological features include airway hyperresponsiveness, mucus hypersecretion, and chronic airway inflammation.
- Environmental and genetic factors contribute to asthma development.
Purpose:
- To provide an overview of childhood asthma, its pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic considerations.
- To highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis in preschool children, differentiating asthma from other conditions.
- To emphasize the need for effective management strategies for pediatric asthma patients.
Summary:
- Asthma in children presents with wheezing episodes, often triggered by viral infections in infants, but not always indicative of adult asthma.
- Diagnosis in young children (<5 years) primarily relies on clinical history, family history of atopy, and physical examination, as lung function tests have limited utility.
- Differential diagnosis is crucial to exclude conditions like cystic fibrosis.
Impact:
- Empowers parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers with essential information for managing pediatric asthma.
- Facilitates timely and accurate diagnosis, leading to appropriate treatment and improved quality of life for affected children.
- Promotes understanding of asthma management, enabling children to lead normal lives, including participation in physical activities.
Abstract:
Asthma is the most commonly observed chronic disease in childhood and the incidence has been increasing in industrialized countries over the last decades. Airway obstruction due to increased sensitivity of the small airways, mucus production and chronic inflammation are key features in the pathophysiology of asthma. Environmental and genetic factors predispose for the disease, which is clinically characterized by sudden occurrence of episodes of expiratory airway obstruction (wheezing). In the majority of preschool infants such obstructive episodes are triggered by viral infections (especially during the winter season) and do not necessarily predispose for asthma later in adulthood. Patient and family history (e.g. atopy), good clinical examination and differential diagnosis (e.g. exclusion of cystic fibrosis) are of prime importance as the role of lung function measurements is limited as the disease frequently occurs before the age of 5 years. Information about asthma is important for children, parents and caregivers. Acute and chronic medication should control asthma symptoms and allow the affected child to lead a normal life including physical exercise.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
01:20Asthma: 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.
01:24Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Classification of Asthma
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include: