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Pulsus paradoxus in childhood asthma--its prognostic value
Annals of Allergy
|June 1, 1977
Summary
Pulsus paradoxus in children with asthma indicates severity and predicts treatment response. This sign, a drop in pulse during breathing, helps assess acute asthma exacerbations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Asthma exacerbations in children can present with respiratory distress.
- Pulsus paradoxus is a known clinical sign in severe respiratory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and significance of pulsus paradoxus in asthmatic children.
- To correlate pulsus paradoxus with asthma severity and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- One hundred asthmatic children were assessed for pulsus paradoxus using a sphygmomanometer.
- Systolic pressure differences during inspiration and expiration were recorded.
- Response to epinephrine treatment was documented.
Main Results:
- Seventy-five children with mild asthma showed no pulsus paradoxus and responded well to epinephrine.
- Twenty-five children had palpable pulsus paradoxus (10-30 mm Hg).
- Higher pulsus paradoxus (≥20 mm Hg) correlated with hospitalization for status asthmaticus.
Conclusions:
- Pulsus paradoxus is a valuable indicator of acute asthma exacerbation severity in children.
- The degree of pulsus paradoxus correlates with clinical severity and response to bronchodilators.
- This sign aids in clinical decision-making for pediatric asthma management.