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Lung function after acute bronchiolitis
Insights
Most infants (77%) showed lung hyperinflation after acute bronchiolitis. Lung function abnormalities persisted in 17% a year later, with many experiencing lower respiratory tract symptoms and wheezing.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Pulmonology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Acute bronchiolitis is a common childhood respiratory infection.
- Long-term lung function consequences following bronchiolitis are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess lung function in children during the year following acute bronchiolitis.
- To identify persistent lung function abnormalities and associated symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study involving 93 children.
- 211 lung function measurements were conducted over 12 months post-illness.
- Thoracic gas volume and specific airway conductance were assessed.
Main Results:
- 77% of infants exhibited hyperinflation (thoracic gas volume > 40 ml/kg) during convalescence.
- 43% remained hyperinflated at 3 months, and 17% at 12 months.
- 17% of children had persistent lung function abnormalities and lower respiratory tract symptoms at 12 months; 60% experienced wheezing.
Conclusions:
- Acute bronchiolitis can lead to prolonged lung function impairment in children.
- Persistent hyperinflation and wheezing are common sequelae.
- Further research is needed to clarify the impact of atopy on lung function outcomes post-bronchiolitis.
Abstract:
We performed 211 lung function measurements on 93 children in the first year after they had been admitted with acute bronchiolitis. During the convalescent phase of the illness, 77% of the infants were hyperinflated with a thoracic gas volume greater than 40 ml/kg and 3 months later 43% were hyperinflated. Twelve months after the initial illness, 17% still had lung function abnormalities and most of these children have had lower respiratory tract symptoms. For the group as a whole about 60% have had at least one episode of wheezing. Specific conductances were significantly lower in children from atopic families, indicating worse lung function, but the significance of this finding is unclear.