Rhinovirus bronchiolitis and recurrent wheezing: 1-year follow-up

F Midulla1, A Pierangeli, G Cangiano

  • 1Dept of Paediatrics, Sapienza University Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy. midulla@uniroma1.it

Insights

Rhinovirus (RV) infection and a family history of asthma are key predictors of recurrent wheezing in infants after their first bronchiolitis episode. This finding helps identify infants at higher risk for developing persistent respiratory issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • The link between bronchiolitis and recurrent wheezing in infants is not fully understood.
  • Identifying risk factors for recurrent wheezing is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate risk factors for recurrent wheezing in infants following their first hospitalization for bronchiolitis.
  • To determine the association between specific viral infections and recurrent wheezing.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective follow-up of 313 infants hospitalized for bronchiolitis.
  • Collection of demographic, clinical, and laboratory data, including nasal wash virus assays.
  • 12-month follow-up using parental interviews to assess recurrent wheezing.

Main Results:

  • Infants with bronchiolitis had a significantly higher rate of recurrent wheezing (52.7%) compared to controls (10.3%).
  • Rhinovirus (RV) infection (OR 3.3) and a family history of asthma (OR 2.5) were identified as independent risk factors.
  • RV infection emerged as a significant predictor of recurrent wheezing post-bronchiolitis.

Conclusions:

  • Rhinovirus infection is strongly associated with recurrent wheezing in infants after bronchiolitis.
  • Family history of asthma is another significant risk factor.
  • RV infection can help predict infants at risk for developing recurrent wheezing.

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