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Clinical characteristics of childhood asthma

M J Mercer1, C H van Niekerk

  • 1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein.

South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|January 19, 1991
PubMed

Insights

This study on pediatric asthma in Bloemfontein found male predominance and early onset are common. Allergic rhinitis is prevalent, with grass pollen and animal dander being frequent triggers.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
  • Respiratory Medicine
  • Clinical Epidemiology

Background:

  • Asthma is a significant chronic respiratory disease in children.
  • Understanding triggers and prevalence in specific populations is crucial for effective management.
  • Paediatric allergy clinics serve as key centers for diagnosing and managing childhood asthma.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the clinical characteristics, common allergens, and inducing factors of asthma in 298 children.
  • To identify the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and family history of allergy in pediatric asthma patients.
  • To highlight challenges in asthma diagnosis, especially in young children.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study design involving 298 asthmatic children.
  • Detailed patient history collection.
  • Allergen-specific skin testing.

Main Results:

  • Confirmed male predominance and early age of onset in pediatric asthma.
  • Symptomatic allergic rhinitis was highly prevalent.
  • Grass pollen (63%) and animal danders were the most common allergens.
  • Respiratory infections, weather changes, and exercise were primary asthma triggers.
  • House-dust mite (25%) and dietary allergens (<20%) were less common.
  • A family history of allergy was reported in over 90% of cases.

Conclusions:

  • Asthma in children presents with distinct characteristics, including a strong familial link and high comorbidity with allergic rhinitis.
  • Environmental factors like pollen and animal dander are significant triggers, while house-dust mites and dietary allergens appear less so in this cohort.
  • Delayed recognition of asthma symptoms, particularly in younger children, remains a critical issue requiring attention in clinical practice.

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