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Acute severe asthma. A prospective study of the precipitating factors in 40 children

P C Potter, E Weinberg, S C Shore

    South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
    |September 15, 1984
    PubMed

    Insights

    Respiratory infections are the primary trigger for severe asthma attacks in children. Allergens and weather changes were less significant factors in this pediatric asthma study.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Pulmonology
    • Allergy and Immunology
    • Epidemiology

    Background:

    • Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease in children, often characterized by acute exacerbations.
    • Identifying triggers for severe asthma attacks is crucial for effective management and prevention.
    • Previous research has indicated various potential factors, including allergens, environmental changes, and infections.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the precipitating factors of acute severe asthma in children.
    • To compare exposure to potential triggers between children with severe asthma exacerbations and those who are clinically well.
    • To explore the role of infections, allergens, meteorological changes, and medication adherence.

    Main Methods:

    • A prospective study design was employed.
    • Two groups of 40 children with known asthma were compared: one group presenting with acute severe asthma and a control group who were clinically well.
    • Data on recent exposure to allergens, meteorological conditions, drug compliance, and respiratory infections were collected and analyzed.

    Main Results:

    • Respiratory tract infections were the most frequent precipitating factor identified in the majority of severe asthma attacks.
    • Exposure to known allergens was reported in a smaller proportion of cases (7%).
    • No significant relationship was found between symptom onset and meteorological changes (temperature, humidity, barometric pressure).
    • Drug compliance was similar in both groups, around 50%.

    Conclusions:

    • Infections of the respiratory tract are the predominant cause of acute severe asthma attacks in the studied pediatric population.
    • Allergens and meteorological factors appear to play a less significant role in precipitating severe asthma exacerbations compared to infections.
    • The findings underscore the importance of addressing respiratory infections in the management and prevention strategies for severe pediatric asthma.

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