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Published on: January 17, 2011
Cough in the pediatric population
Anne B Chang1, Robert G Berkowitz
1Queensland Children's Respiratory Centre, Children's Medical Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland 4029, Australia. annechang@ausdoctors.net
Insights
Pediatric chronic cough requires careful evaluation by otolaryngologists. This review covers key diagnoses like rhinosinusitis and foreign body aspiration, emphasizing comprehensive assessment for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Pulmonology
Background:
- Pediatric cough, especially chronic cough, frequently leads to referrals to otolaryngologists.
- Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for improving children's quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight and discuss cough-related issues pertinent to otolaryngologists.
- To provide an evidence-based overview of potential diagnoses for pediatric cough.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on pediatric cough and otolaryngologic conditions.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding common and less common causes of cough in children.
Main Results:
- Common diagnoses include rhinosinusitis, foreign body aspiration, and tracheomalacia.
- Otolaryngologists must consider a broad differential diagnosis for pediatric cough.
Conclusions:
- Otolaryngologists play a vital role in diagnosing and managing pediatric cough.
- Awareness of diverse etiologies ensures optimal patient care and outcomes.
Abstract:
Children with cough, in particular chronic cough, are sometimes referred to otolaryngologists for assessment, diagnosis, and management. Although the likely diagnoses encountered by otolaryngologists are rhinosinusitis, foreign body aspiration, and tracheomalacia, otolaryngologists should be cognizant of the many other possible diagnoses and the evidence for and against their association. This article highlights and focuses the discussion on the cough issues relevant to otolaryngologists.
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