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Breath Collection from Children for Disease Biomarker Discovery
Published on: February 14, 2019
Respiratory morbidity in children with profound intellectual and multiple disability.
M Proesmans1, M Vreys1, E Huenaerts1
1Department of pediatric pulmonology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Respiratory morbidity in children with profound intellectual and multiple disability (PIMD) was lower than expected. However, specific risk factors like aspiration and epilepsy increase the likelihood of severe airway issues in a subset of these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Pulmonology
- Neurology
Background:
- Profound intellectual and multiple disability (PIMD) involves profound cognitive, sensory, and motor impairments.
- Understanding respiratory health in this population is crucial due to potential complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess respiratory morbidity in children with PIMD.
- To identify risk factors associated with respiratory issues in this group.
Main Methods:
- A standardized clinical assessment of respiratory and motor function was conducted.
- Data from 127 children (aged 2-21) across 10 specialized facilities were analyzed.
- Medical information, including feeding methods and pre-existing conditions, was collected.
Main Results:
- The median number of lower airway infections was four per year.
- While 68% had no hospital admissions for respiratory disease, 12% were admitted three or more times.
- Gastroesophageal reflux, swallowing problems, aspiration, epilepsy, and physical impairments were identified as risk factors for hospital admissions.
Conclusions:
- Respiratory morbidity in children with PIMD was generally lower than anticipated.
- A significant subgroup faces recurrent severe airway problems, necessitating targeted interventions.
- Risk factors identified can inform preventative strategies and management plans.
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