[Recurrent respiratory tract infections in children]

Respiratory diseases are among the most common disorders found in the clinical practice of every pediatrician. It is estimated that a total of 10-15% of children experience recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRTI). Unfortunately, there is no universal consensus on the definition of recurrent respiratory tract infections in children. In addition, the number of episodes taken into account to define the recurrent nature of infections varies depending on the disease (location of the ongoing infection) and its severity. The most commonly accepted definition is the occurrence of eight or more documented respiratory tract infections per year in preschool children (up to three years old) and six or more in children older than three years, in the absence of any pathological condition underlying recurrent infections. It is very important to select in the group of children suffering from RRTI those who may have primary immunodeficiency. The detailed medical history plays an important role. In cases of positive medical history for immunodeficiency, it is mandatory to conduct a detailed examination of the immune system.