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Risk factors for occasional and recurrent wheezing after RSV infection in infancy

E Rylander1, M Eriksson, U Freyschuss

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Karolinska Institute, St. Göran's Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.

Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica
|September 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection in infancy can lead to recurrent wheezing in early childhood. Children with recurrent wheezing showed mild lung obstruction on spirometry, indicating potential long-term respiratory effects.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants.
  • The long-term respiratory sequelae of severe RSV infection are not fully understood.
  • Early childhood wheezing is a significant health concern with various potential underlying causes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the long-term respiratory outcomes in children previously hospitalized with RSV infection.
  • To identify risk factors associated with recurrent wheezing after RSV.
  • To assess lung function in children with a history of RSV infection.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 67 children hospitalized with verified RSV infection was followed for 4 years.
  • Children were re-examined between ages 4-7 years.
  • Respiratory symptoms and spirometric data (PEF, MEF25) were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-one children experienced recurrent wheezing, 22 had occasional wheezing, and 24 had no subsequent respiratory symptoms.
  • Recurrent wheezing was associated with a family history of atopy and personal history of neonatal respiratory problems.
  • Children with recurrent wheezing showed significantly lower PEF and MEF25 values, indicative of mild obstruction.

Conclusions:

  • RSV infection in infancy is linked to subsequent wheezing episodes, with recurrent wheezing being more common than occasional.
  • Family history of atopy and neonatal respiratory issues are risk factors for recurrent wheezing post-RSV.
  • Mild lung obstruction may persist in children with recurrent wheezing following RSV infection, necessitating further investigation.

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