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An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Published on: December 10, 2013
Recurrent respiratory infections: why not talking about it any more?
E Nencioni1, E Chiappini, A Liguori
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Florence, Italy.
Minerva Pediatrica
|October 31, 2008
Summary
Recurrent respiratory infections (RRIs) in children are typically benign and self-limiting. Diagnosis relies on medical history and examination, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics and interventions like cough syrups.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Recurrent respiratory infections (RRIs) affect approximately 6% of schoolchildren.
- RRIs are generally benign with mild, postinfective immune system changes.
- Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary investigations and antibiotic treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide guidance on the diagnosis and management of RRIs in children.
- To differentiate benign RRIs from underlying serious conditions.
- To emphasize appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic approaches for RRIs.
- Evaluation of laboratory tests for excluding underlying diseases.
- Assessment of environmental risk factors and treatment interventions.
Main Results:
- Medical history and clinical examination are usually sufficient for diagnosing RRIs.
- Complete blood count and immunoglobulin levels can exclude specific immune deficiencies.
- Reducing environmental tobacco smoke and delaying daycare enrollment decrease RRIs.
Conclusions:
- Most RRIs are self-limited, and parents should be reassured.
- Antibiotic treatment and anti-cough syrups are not justified for RRIs.
- Nasal saline lavage and blowing are the only recommended interventions; surgery is reserved for specific indications.
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