Related Experiment Videos
Cross-sectional study of bone density in asthmatic children
R J Hopp1, J A Degan, J Phelan
1Department of Pediatrics, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska 68178, USA.
Pediatric Pulmonology
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are a key asthma treatment for children. This study found low-dose ICS did not negatively impact bone density in pediatric asthma patients compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Pediatric Bone Health
Background:
- Asthma management in children increasingly relies on inhaled anti-inflammatory medications, specifically inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).
- Children with moderate to severe chronic asthma are often candidates for maintenance therapy with ICS.
- Previous research indicated no significant difference in total bone density between asthmatic children using ICS and control groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of daily low-dose inhaled corticosteroids (beclomethasone dipropionate) on bone density in pediatric asthma patients.
- To compare bone density, bone age, and calcium intake in asthmatic children on ICS with age- and sex-matched controls.
- To extend existing data on the long-term safety of ICS in pediatric asthma.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 15 pediatric asthma patients on daily ICS (200-450 mcg/day for 4-60 months) was compared to age- and sex-matched controls.
- Measurements included total and regional bone density (using DXA or equivalent), bone age assessment, and calcium intake (% RDA Ca2+).
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare anthropometric data, bone age, calcium intake, and bone mineral density between the groups.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed between asthmatic subjects and controls in height, weight, bone age, or calcium intake.
- Bone density, encompassing both total body and regional measurements, was equivalent between the asthmatic children using ICS and their matched controls.
- The duration of ICS treatment ranged from 4 to 60 months, with no adverse effects on bone density noted.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) appear to be safe concerning bone density in children with chronic asthma.
- These findings support the continued use of ICS as a maintenance therapy for pediatric asthma without significant detrimental effects on skeletal health.
- Further long-term studies can continue to monitor bone health in pediatric populations using ICS for asthma management.