Recurrent upper respiratory tract infections in early childhood: a newly defined clinical condition

Antonio Corsello1,2, Gregorio Paolo Milani3,4, Marina Picca5

  • 1Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy. antonio.corsello@unimi.it.

PubMed

Insights

Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (R-URTIs) affect 5-10% of young children. A new definition aids diagnosis, noting elusive risk factors in pediatric R-URTIs.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Epidemiology of childhood illnesses

Background:

  • Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (R-URTIs) present a significant healthcare challenge for children and families.
  • Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of R-URTIs in young children is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (R-URTIs) in children aged 0-5 years.
  • To establish a practical and dynamic definition for R-URTI in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

  • An observational study involving 483 children aged 0-5 years.
  • Prospective data collection by family pediatricians on socio-demographics, medical history, and URTI episodes.
  • Follow-up of children until March 2021, prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Main Results:

  • An estimated 5-10% prevalence of R-URTIs was observed in the study cohort.
  • A proposed definition for R-URTI: at least four episodes of 4+ days each within six months, with intervening well periods.
  • Specific risk factors for R-URTI were not clearly identified.

Conclusions:

  • R-URTIs may affect children irrespective of family or clinical history, as risk factors were elusive.
  • The proposed definition serves as a valuable tool for clinicians in diagnosing and managing pediatric R-URTIs.
  • Age stratification and observation timing support patient-specific clinical decisions.
Abstract

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