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Published on: August 4, 2021
[Use of pentamidine nebulization in children]
M Oudyi1, J-P Chaumuzeau, P Diot
1Unité de pneumologie pédiatrique et CNRS URMITE 6236, CHU de Timone-Enfants, 264 rue Saint-Pierre, Marseille cedex 05, France.
Revue Des Maladies Respiratoires
|June 12, 2012
Summary
Nebulized pentamidine is infrequently used in pediatric patients, with many hospitals using unapproved nebulizers. Further guidance is needed on appropriate device selection for this treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pentamidine is a key prophylactic treatment for Pneumocystis pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals.
- The recommended Respirgard II® jet nebulizer is no longer available, necessitating a review of current practices.
- Limited information exists on the current clinical application of nebulized pentamidine in pediatric settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current clinical practices for nebulized pentamidine administration in French pediatric hospitals.
- To identify the devices used for pentamidine nebulization and evaluate their appropriateness.
- To understand the frequency of use, indications, and reported side effects of nebulized pentamidine in children.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to university hospital departments of Haematology and Pneumology across France.
- Data collected included treatment indications, patient numbers, side effects, and nebulizer devices utilized.
- Responses from 36 out of 62 surveyed departments (58% response rate) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Nebulized pentamidine is used in a minority of immunocompromised pediatric patients (5-15 years) unable to tolerate alternative therapies, primarily in Haematology departments.
- Treatment typically involves monthly doses (150-300mg) for 9-12 months, with fewer than ten children treated annually per center.
- A significant proportion of departments (61%) reported using unknown or non-adapted nebulizers (ultrasonic, mesh), while others used approved jet nebulizers.
Conclusions:
- The use of nebulized pentamidine in pediatric care is infrequent.
- There is a critical need for improved information and guidelines regarding the selection and use of appropriate nebulizer devices for pentamidine administration in children.
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