Asthma in small children – diagnostic approach

Abstract:

Although asthma starts most often at a pre-school age, among the children who have recurrent episodes of wheezing there are several other phenotypes that differ significantly regarding the pathophysiology, risk factors, prognosis and treatment. Each child with a history of recurrent wheezing requires an individual approach. This involves recording a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination, as well as other diagnostic procedures to exclude possible causes of recurrent wheezing. Both the transient early wheezing and non-atopic viral induced wheezing have a good prognosis and, with symptomatic treatment, cease before the school age. However, the process of remodeling which causes irreversible changes in the bronchial structure is present from the very beginning in children who suffer from asthma. It is therefore particularly important to determine an early diagnosis in these children, in order to introduce .anti-inflammatory treatment on time. 

Key words:
small children, recurrent wheezing, asthma, diagnosis