Asthma in school-age children

Asthma exacerbation is a paroxysmal phenomenon that can be life-threatening. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological profile and management of asthma exacerbations in children aged 6 to 12. This was a retrospective study involving 57 children hospitalized for moderate or severe asthma exacerbation during a period from January 2021 to March 2022. Results: The mean age of onset in our series was 8 ± 2.17 years, with a clear male predominance. In patients with known asthma, the disease was controlled in 28% of cases, partially controlled in 38.6% and uncontrolled in 33.4%. Asthma exacerbation was inaugural in 33% of cases. Viral respiratory infections dominated the triggers (28%), with an average hospital stay of 5 ± 1 days. Most cases improved with treatment. Most exacerbations could be avoided by improving therapeutic education for asthmatic children and their families.

Autorentext

Kwas Hamida, professore associato di pneumologia presso l'ospedale universitario di Gabès, Università di Sfax, Tunisia.