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Association of bacteria and viruses with wheezy episodes in young children: prospective birth cohort study

Hans Bisgaard1, Mette Northman Hermansen, Klaus Bønnelykke

  • 1The Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood, Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, and The Danish Pediatric Asthma Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Gentofte, Ledreborg Allé 34, DK-2820 Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark. Bisgaard@copsac.com

BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|October 6, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Wheezy episodes in young children are linked to bacterial infections, independent of viral infections. This study highlights the significant role of bacteria in acute wheezing in pediatric populations.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric respiratory health
  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Wheezing is a common respiratory symptom in young children.
  • The role of bacterial infections in acute wheezing episodes requires further clarification.
  • Understanding causative agents is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between bacterial presence in airways and wheezy symptoms in young children.
  • To determine if bacterial infections independently contribute to wheezing.
  • To compare the impact of bacterial and viral infections on wheezing.

Main Methods:

  • A birth cohort study was conducted.
  • Airway aspirates were collected from children (4 weeks to 3 years) of asthmatic mothers.
  • Samples were analyzed for bacterial and viral carriage during wheezy episodes and asymptomatic periods.

Main Results:

  • Wheezing episodes showed a significant association with bacterial infection (OR 2.9) and virus infection (OR 2.8).
  • Analyses included 984 samples for bacteria and 844 for viruses.
  • The association of bacteria with wheezing was independent of viral infections.

Conclusions:

  • Acute wheezing in young children is significantly associated with bacterial infections.
  • Bacterial infections contribute to wheezing independently of viral infections.
  • This finding emphasizes the importance of considering bacterial pathogens in pediatric wheezing.
Abstract

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