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Viruses and atypical bacteria associated with asthma exacerbations in hospitalized children

Alberto F Maffey1, Paola R Barrero, Carolina Venialgo

  • 1Centro Respiratorio, Hospital de Niños "Ricardo Gutiérrez," Buenos Aires, Argentina. amaffey@gmail.com

Pediatric Pulmonology
|May 27, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Respiratory viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus (HRV) are common in children with acute asthma exacerbations. Their seasonal patterns, particularly RSV and HRV, significantly influence hospital admissions during these exacerbations.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Respiratory Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Asthma Research

Background:

  • Acute asthma exacerbations in children are frequently linked to respiratory infections.
  • Understanding the specific pathogens and their seasonal patterns is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of respiratory viruses, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydophila pneumoniae in children with acute asthma exacerbations.
  • To investigate the seasonal circulation patterns of these pathogens in the Southern Hemisphere.

Main Methods:

  • A 1-year prospective, observational, cross-sectional study included 209 children (3 months to 16 years) hospitalized for asthma exacerbations.
  • Respiratory secretions were analyzed using immunofluorescence and polymerase chain reaction for various viruses and atypical bacteria.

Main Results:

  • A causative agent was identified in 78% of patients. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (40%) and rhinovirus (HRV) (24.5%) were the most common. Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae were detected less frequently (4.5% and 2%).
  • RSV infections were associated with longer hospital stays, increased oxygen requirements, longer pre-hospitalization exacerbation duration, and younger age compared to HRV.
  • Three distinct seasonal peaks of admissions were observed, driven by HRV in early autumn, RSV in winter, and a combination of RSV, HMPV, and HRV in spring.

Conclusions:

  • Respiratory viruses are highly prevalent in children experiencing acute asthma exacerbations.
  • Seasonal surges in HRV and RSV are the primary drivers of asthma-related hospitalizations in this pediatric population.
Abstract

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