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Pulmonary care of children and adolescents with developmental disabilities

John H Marks1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA. marks@kcms.msu.edu

Pediatric Clinics of North America
|December 2, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Children with developmental disabilities face respiratory issues like aspiration pneumonia and sleep apnea. This review covers common pulmonary problems, their causes, and evidence-based treatments to improve quality of life.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Clinical Management

Background:

  • Children with developmental disabilities are prone to significant respiratory complications.
  • Pulmonary issues can impact overall health, quality of life, and survival rates in this population.

Observation:

  • Common challenges include gastroesophageal reflux, dysphagia, and drooling, leading to aspiration and pneumonia.
  • Upper airway obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea are also prevalent concerns.
  • Effective airway clearance techniques are crucial for managing respiratory health.

Findings:

  • This article reviews the etiology, evaluation, and evidence-based treatment options for these pulmonary conditions.
  • Case studies illustrate the practical application of management strategies.
  • The focus is on improving the child's quality of life with minimal adverse effects.

Implications:

  • Early identification and management of pulmonary problems are essential for children with developmental disabilities.
  • A multidisciplinary approach integrating pulmonology and developmental pediatrics can optimize care.
  • Evidence-based interventions can mitigate respiratory morbidity and enhance patient outcomes.

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