Pediatric pulmonology

Common diseases in Pediatric pulmonology

• A. Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder characterized by
inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult.
• B. Bronchitis: Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the air
passages that carry air to and from the lungs.
• C. Bronchiolitis: Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that affects the small
airways in the lungs, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
• D. Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes
inflammation and fluid buildup in the air sacs.
• E. Cystic fibrosis: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs
and digestive system, causing thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs
and other organs.
• F. Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person's breathing
stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to reduced oxygen levels and
disrupted sleep, which can have serious health consequences.
 Asthma
• asthma is a chronic respiratory condition in
which the airways in the lungs to become
inflamed, narrow, and swell, leading to
symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest
tightness, and shortness of breath.
• These symptoms can be triggered by a variety
of factors, including allergens, exercise,
respiratory infections, and changes in weather
 Etiology of Asthma
• The exact cause of asthma is not fully
understood, but it is believed to result from a
combination of genetic and environmental
factors.
• Following are the most common that might
lead to asthma in children
• Genetics, environmental exposure, respiratory
infections, allergic sensitization.
 Classification of Asthma
• According to EPR-3 guidelines of WHO, following are the types.

1. Intermittent asthma : experience symptoms less than twice a

week, and the symptoms typically resolve
2. Mild persistent asthma : experience symptoms more than
twice a week, but less than once a day. These children may
require the use of rescue medications to control their
symptoms.
3. Moderate persistent asthma : experience symptoms daily and
may require the use of both controller and rescue medications
4. Severe persistent asthma : experience symptoms throughout
the day and night and may require daily use of high-dose
controller medications and frequent use of rescue medications
 Physical examination &
Diagnostic Tests

• Physical examination of the child including auscultation

to find out any wheezing or crackles, checking for signs
for nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, allergic dermatitis etc.
• The diagnosis of asthma in children is typically based
on a combination of clinical history, physical
examination, and the results of following tests.
– Lung function test : Spirometry
– Peak flow meter test
– Chest X-ray
– Allergy test
 Treatment
• The treatment of asthma in children involves controlling and managing the symptoms, preventing
exacerbations and improving the overall quality of life for the child. The following are some of the
common treatments for asthma in children:
• Medications: Asthma medications can be used to manage symptoms, prevent exacerbations, and
improve lung function. Some common medications include bronchodilators, which help to open
up the airways, and corticosteroids, which help to reduce inflammation in the airways.
• Allergen avoidance: Children with asthma may have specific triggers, such as allergens or
environmental irritants, that can worsen their symptoms. By avoiding these triggers, the child can
reduce the severity and frequency of their asthma symptoms.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that can help
children with asthma improve their lung function, breathing, and overall physical endurance.
• Asthma action plan: An asthma action plan is a written plan that outlines the child's
individualized treatment plan and provides guidance on what to do in case of an asthma
exacerbation.
• Lifestyle changes: Children with asthma can benefit from making healthy lifestyle changes, such
as regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco smoke exposure
 -Conclusion-
• In conclusion, asthma is a common chronic
respiratory disease in children that can have a
significant impact on their quality of life thus
requiring regular monitoring
THANK YOU