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Published on: November 4, 2010

Management of status asthmaticus in children

Sunil Saharan1, Rakesh Lodha, Sushil K Kabra

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 10029, India.

Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|September 9, 2010
PubMed

Insights

This protocol outlines the management of status asthmaticus in children, a severe asthma exacerbation. It details guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care to reduce preventable mortality.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Pulmonology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Asthma is a prevalent chronic airway inflammatory disorder causing wheezing, breathlessness, and coughing.
  • Acute asthma exacerbations are life-threatening, with 250,000 preventable deaths annually worldwide.
  • Severe exacerbations in children, known as status asthmaticus, often require intensive care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide comprehensive guidelines for the diagnosis and management of status asthmaticus in pediatric patients.
  • To detail treatment protocols, including initial and advanced therapies for severe asthma attacks in children.
  • To discuss ventilator management and supportive care strategies for critically ill children with status asthmaticus.

Main Methods:

  • Review and synthesis of current medical literature and clinical guidelines.
  • Development of a standardized protocol for emergency room and intensive care unit management.
  • Focus on evidence-based treatment options for pediatric status asthmaticus.

Main Results:

  • Standard initial treatment includes inhaled beta-2 agonists, anticholinergic agents, oxygen, and corticosteroids.
  • Children unresponsive to initial therapy may require parenteral beta-2 agonists and magnesium.
  • Rarely, parenteral aminophylline and mechanical ventilation are necessary for refractory cases.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of status asthmaticus in children is crucial for preventing mortality.
  • Adherence to established guidelines ensures optimal treatment and supportive care.
  • This protocol aims to standardize care and improve outcomes for children with severe asthma exacerbations.

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