Asthma Definition,Epidemiology,Determinants

4th Pediatric Infectious Diseases Conference

ISSN 0973 - 0958

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Asthma in Children

Allergic Disorders

Asthma

Anaphylaxis

ASTHMA IN CHILDREN: ENCYLOPEDIA

Asthma Introduction

Asthma Definition

Asthma Pathophysiology

Asthma Clinical Features

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Asthma Differential Diagnosis

Asthma Investigations

Asthma Classification and Medications

Asthma Management Guidelines

Asthma Therapy

Asthma Common Drugs

Asthma Intervention Drugs

Asthma other Drugs and Control

Patient Education about Asthma

Asthma Management and References

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Asthma In Children

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Asthma in Children- Part 1

Asthma in Children- Part 2

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ASTHMA IN CHILDREN

Dr C.T.Deshmukh
Professor of Pediatrics, K.E.M Hospital

Definition Of Asthma

Asthma is a diffuse obstructive lung disease due to inflammation of the airways, increased mucus production, contraction of the bronchial smooth muscles, with hyperactivity of the airways to a variety of stimuli, a high degree of reversibility of the obstructive process which may occur either spontaneously or as a result of treatment. (Reversible obstructive airway disease).

Current thinking is that regardless of severity, asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways.

Epidemiology and Determinants of Pediatric Asthma

Despite the fact that pediatric asthma has become an important public health problem, the major determinants of childhood asthma are still unknown. Familial / genetic role for etiology is the most important factor.

Atopy is the strongest predisposing factor for development of asthma.

More than fifty percent of all children who wheeze with viral infection of the lungs during the first years of life have a transient condition that rapidly subsides sometime after the preschool years.

Those who persist to have wheezing at 6 years, who have history or tests suggestive of asthma-related allergies or atopy or have a positive family history of asthma, are more likely to have persistent symptoms of asthma until late childhood or even adult life.

Environmental factors are also important and the most preventable predisposing factors. The common environmental triggers are cigarette smoke, animal proteins, pet-related biological matter and dust mite. Environmental agents work in synergy with viral infections to alter reactivity of the airways.

The prevalence of asthma varies from 5 -20 %.

Severe asthma leading to death is seen in about 1 %. Hypoxia or air leaks are the main cause of deaths.

Main reasons for increased mortality are:

Faulty assessment of severity of illness either by doctor or patient.

Late or sub optimal hospital treatment.

Lack of medical care.

Lack of knowledge of disease.

Delayed use of steroids

Over dependence on inhaled B agonist.

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