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Risk factors for respiratory syncytial virus hospitalisation in children with heart disease

K Kristensen1, L G Stensballe, J Bjerre

  • 1Paediatric Clinic 2, National University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark. kimk@dadlnet.dk

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|June 23, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Children with heart disease face higher risks of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalization. Key risk factors include Down syndrome, cardiomyopathy, and significant heart conditions, with younger age and decompensation worsening outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Congenital and acquired heart conditions in children increase vulnerability to respiratory infections.
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) poses a significant threat to pediatric populations, particularly those with underlying health issues.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the risk factors for RSV hospitalization in children with heart disease.
  • To identify predictors of severe RSV disease requiring respiratory support in this vulnerable group.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study design was employed using a Danish national database of RSV tests.
  • Children diagnosed with RSV and heart disease between 1996 and 2003 were identified and matched with controls.
  • Clinical data were collected through comprehensive medical record reviews.

Main Results:

  • Down syndrome, cardiomyopathy, and hemodynamically significant heart disease were identified as key predictors of RSV hospitalization.
  • Younger age and cardiac decompensation were significantly associated with the need for respiratory support during RSV hospitalization.
  • The incidence rate of RSV hospitalization in children aged 0-23 months with heart disease was 5.65 per 100 child-years.

Conclusions:

  • Specific cardiac conditions and genetic syndromes elevate the risk of RSV hospitalization in children.
  • Early age and worsening heart function are critical factors influencing the severity of RSV disease in pediatric patients with cardiac conditions.
Abstract

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