Prediction model of RSV-hospitalization in late preterm infants: An update and validation study

Koos Korsten1, Maarten O Blanken1, Elisabeth E Nibbelke1

  • 1Division of Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.

Insights

A new prediction model identifies infants at high risk for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalization. This tool helps target new RSV therapeutics to infants who will benefit most, improving preventative care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • New respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines and therapeutics are emerging.
  • Selecting appropriate target populations for these new treatments presents a challenge.
  • An improved prediction model for RSV hospitalization in infants is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To update and validate a previously published prediction model for RSV hospitalization within the first year of life.
  • To identify key predictors of RSV hospitalization in infants.
  • To develop a user-friendly tool for risk stratification.

Main Methods:

  • Two prospective multicenter birth cohort studies (RISK-I and RISK-II) were conducted.
  • The RISK-I cohort (n=2524) was used to update the prediction model.
  • The RISK-II cohort (n=1564) served for external validation of the updated model.

Main Results:

  • 181 infants were hospitalized for RSV. Key predictors identified include daycare/siblings, birth date, neonatal respiratory support, limited breastfeeding, and maternal atopy.
  • The updated model demonstrated superior discrimination in the validation cohort (AUROC 0.72).
  • A nomogram was created for easy clinical application to distinguish high-risk infants.

Conclusions:

  • A validated clinical prediction model for RSV hospitalization in preterm infants (32-35 weeks gestational age) was developed.
  • The model and associated nomogram facilitate targeted use of RSV therapeutics.
  • This approach aims to maximize the benefit of new RSV interventions.
Abstract