Recurrent upper respiratory tract infections in early childhood: a newly defined clinical condition
Articolo
Data di Pubblicazione:
2024
Citazione:
Recurrent upper respiratory tract infections in early childhood: a newly defined clinical condition / A. Corsello, G.P. Milani, M. Picca, R. Buzzetti, R. Carrozzo, M. Gambino, G. Chiaffoni, P. Marchisio, C. Mameli. - In: THE ITALIAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS. - ISSN 1824-7288. - 50:1(2024 Feb 16), pp. 30.1-30.5. [10.1186/s13052-024-01600-5]
Abstract:
Background: Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (R-URTIs) pose a significant challenge in pediatric healthcare, affecting both children and their families. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical implications of R-URTI in children aged 0-5 years. Methods: This observational study involved a sample of 483 children aged 0-5 years, focusing on establishing a practical and dynamic definition of R-URTI. Family pediatricians prospectively collected socio-demographic information, medical history, and recorded the occurrence of URTI episodes. Children were followed from recruitment until March 2021, predating the COVID-19 outbreak. Results: A substantial prevalence of R-URTIs was found, estimating it at 5-10% among this age group. To define R-URTI, a practical and dynamic criterion was proposed: children experiencing a minimum of four URTI episodes, each lasting four days or more, within a six-month period, with intervals of well-being in between. Conclusions: The study highlighted that specific risk factors for R-URTI were elusive, suggesting that this condition may affect children regardless of their family or clinical history. Moreover, the study's stratification by age group and times of observation facilitated patient-specific clinical decision-making. The proposed definition may represent a valuable tool for clinicians in diagnosing and addressing R-URTI cases.
Tipologia IRIS:
01 - Articolo su periodico
Elenco autori:
A. Corsello, G.P. Milani, M. Picca, R. Buzzetti, R. Carrozzo, M. Gambino, G. Chiaffoni, P. Marchisio, C. Mameli
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