Continuing Education Activity

Pediatric asthma is characterized by variable expiratory airway limitation and persistent respiratory symptoms, including wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation are additional common features, with severity ranging from intermittent symptoms to potentially life-threatening airway compromise. Asthma often occurs in childhood and is influenced by both genetics and environmental factors. Most children who wheeze before age 6 will likely have their symptoms resolved. However, a subset of children, typically those with atopy, a family history of asthma, and persistent symptoms at a young age, may develop persistent asthma. Assessment evaluates symptom intensity, exacerbation risk, and the likelihood of persistent asthma, guiding treatment decisions accordingly.

The cornerstone of diagnostic evaluation is spirometry, which aids in identifying chest wall, respiratory muscle defects, and respiratory muscle weakness. This technique also assesses airflow limitation and excludes alternative diagnoses. Asthma triggers extend beyond airborne agents, including respiratory infections, allergen exposure, environmental irritants, physical activity, hormonal fluctuations, medications, and psychosocial factors. Treatment strategies focus on patient and caregiver education, regular symptom monitoring, and the implementation of stepwise tailored medication regimens based on symptom severity. This activity covers the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of pediatric asthma. This activity provides healthcare professionals with the information and resources to improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of future asthma attacks, impaired lung development, decreased lung function, and structural changes in children's lungs affected by asthma.

Objectives:

• Identify the symptoms and signs of pediatric asthma, including wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

• Implement evidence-based treatment strategies for pediatric asthma, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.

• Select appropriate medications and devices for asthma management in children based on symptom severity and patient preferences.

• Collaborate with interprofessional healthcare teams to ensure coordinated care and comprehensive support for pediatric patients with asthma. 

Introduction

Pediatric asthma is characterized by variable expiratory airway limitation and persistent respiratory symptoms, including wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma often starts in childhood, with nearly half of all infants wheezing in their first year, and most developing persistent asthma by age 6. A complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors underscores its prevalence and severity. Additionally, patients commonly experience airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation. The severity ranges from intermittent symptoms to potentially life-threatening airway compromise, necessitating a comprehensive diagnostic approach.

Generally, 2 groups of children exhibit wheezing and asthma-like symptoms at a young age.[1][2] One group experiences sporadic symptoms, usually triggered by viral infections, and tends to overcome these episodes as they age. The other group tends to develop symptoms at a later age, often in combination with atopy, a family history of asthma, and an elevated risk of developing persistent asthma in the future.[3] Researchers have attempted to predict which children are prone to long-term asthma by categorizing epidemiologic phenotypes, identifying genetic risk factors, and creating predictive tools. However, the clinical utility of these measures is currently limited.[4]

Evaluation with spirometry, complemented by postbronchodilator response, is pivotal for establishing a definitive diagnosis. Spirometry aids in identifying various respiratory issues in children, including airway obstruction, restrictive lung disease, chest wall and respiratory muscle defects, diffusion defects, and respiratory muscle weakness. Although airborne agents typically dominate discussions of asthma triggers, a diverse range of stimuli, such as respiratory infections, allergen exposure, environmental irritants, physical activity, hormonal fluctuations, medications, and psychosocial factors, can precipitate or worsen symptoms. Treatment strategies revolve around educating patients and caregivers, regularly monitoring symptoms, and ensuring access to both fast-acting bronchodilators and appropriate controller medications tailored to disease severity.[5]

Etiology

Genetics

Intricate interactions between genetic and environmental factors influence the development of asthma. The genetic component of asthma is multifaceted, with various genes potentially contributing to the same asthma phenotype.[6] Additionally, in certain individuals, multiple genes may work together to create the asthma phenotype. Some genes directly affect asthma development, while others impact its severity or influence the patient's response to treatment. The interplay between genetic and environmental factors adds a layer of intricacy. Researchers propose that epigenetics, involving chemical modifications of DNA that regulate gene activity, is a mechanism through which the environment interacts with the genome, resulting in changes in gene expression.

Genetic studies have linked childhood-onset asthma to specific genetic markers near the ORMDL sphingolipid biosynthesis regulator 3 (ORMDL3) and gasdermin B (GSDMB) genes on chromosome 17q21.[7][8][9] Other genes associated with asthma are interleukin-33 (IL33), IL1R1, and interferon-inducible protein X (PYHIN1), mainly affecting individuals of African descent.[8] The EVE Consortium has also identified a genetic locus associated with thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP)—a cytokine involved in asthma-related inflammation. Individuals with asthma frequently demonstrate elevated levels of TSLP expression in their airways compared to those without the condition.[8]

Other genetic loci implicated in asthma susceptibility include major histocompatibility complex, class II, DQ α1 (HLA-DQA1), Toll-like receptor 1 (TLR1), IL-6 receptor (IL6R), zona pellucida-binding protein 2 (ZPBP2), and gasdermin A (GSDMA).[10] Varying concordance rates among monozygotic twins indicate that exposure to environmental factors plays a crucial role in asthma development. Specific alleles may exert different effects based on environmental exposures. Due to this complex interaction, genetic testing for asthma currently lacks clinical utility. 

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing asthma span exposures across a patient's lifespan, including the perinatal period. However, the effects of mitigating these risks and their long-term impact on asthma development remain unclear. The most significant risk factor is atopy, characterized by a genetic propensity to produce specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to common environmental allergens. Nearly one-third of children with atopy will develop asthma later in life.

Prenatal and Perinatal Factors

Prematurity is the most consistent and significant risk factor for asthma during the perinatal period, as preterm birth before 36 weeks is associated with increased asthma risk from childhood to adulthood due to impaired lung development. Maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with reduced lung function in newborns and other adverse pregnancy outcomes, including premature delivery, which increases the likelihood of childhood asthma. Maternal age younger than 20 is correlated with higher rates of childhood asthma, whereas maternal age 30 or older is associated with lower rates.[11][12] Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may contribute to early-life wheezing and asthma due to the effects on immune function and fetal lung development. Although some studies show conflicting results, meta-analyses suggest that maternal vitamin D intake can protect against wheezing or asthma in offspring up to age 3.[13][14]

The Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC2010) reveals that children born to mothers with diets rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have a 17% chance of developing persistent wheeze or asthma in the first 3 years of life compared to a 24% chance in those with diets high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.[13][15] Additionally, vitamins E and C and zinc may offer protective effects. Supplementing pregnant mothers with vitamin C at a dose of 500 mg/d seems to alleviate the detrimental effects of tobacco exposure, as offspring of supplemented mothers exhibit a wheezing incidence of 28% compared to 48% in those without vitamin C supplementation.[16][17]

Infancy, Childhood, and Adolescence

Risk factors during infancy and childhood include male sex until age 20 when the incidence equalizes, abnormal neonatal lung function, atopy, sensitization and exposure to common allergens, obesity, and early puberty.[18] Some studies indicate that the microbiome may also play a role. Exposure to certain bacteria and common allergens within the first year of life may lower the incidence of asthma, whereas exposure later increases the risk.[19] 

Viral respiratory tract infections during infancy, especially those caused by respiratory syncytial virus and human rhinovirus, are predictors of subsequent asthma development in childhood and adulthood. In addition, it remains uncertain if the specific infections directly cause asthma or if wheezing during the infections predicts future asthma development. Additionally, early-life exposure to air pollution, such as products of combustion from gas-fired appliances and indoor fires, obesity, and early puberty, also increases the risk of developing asthma. 

Some studies indicate a connection between maternal and infant use of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and antibiotics and asthma. However, these studies did not account for confounding bias, necessitating further research. Active smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are both risk factors for asthma development. This activity focuses on asthma in children aged 12 or younger. Please see StatPearls' companion resource, "Asthma in Adolescents and Adults," for additional information regarding the etiology of asthma in adolescents. 

Epidemiology

Asthma leads to more school absences and hospitalizations than any other chronic illness and is the most common diagnosis upon admission in many children's hospitals in the United States. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 6 million (or 6.5%) children in the United States have asthma. The prevalence of asthma increases with age among children, ranging from 1.9% in children aged 0 to 4 to 7.7% in children and adolescents aged 5 to 14. Boys have a higher prevalence than girls aged 20 or younger, whereas, in adults, women are more affected than men.

Among infants, 20% experience wheezing with upper respiratory tract infections, but 60% will outgrow it by age 6. Black individuals have a higher prevalence of 10.1% compared to their White counterparts at 8.1%. Hispanic Americans generally have a lower prevalence of 6.4%, except for those from Puerto Rico, where the prevalence rises to 12.8%. Furthermore, underrepresented minorities and individuals living below the poverty line experience the highest incidence of asthma and asthma-related morbidity and mortality. 

According to the Global Burden of Disease report, asthma accounts for approximately 420,000 deaths per year worldwide. Similar trends are observed in the United States, where the mortality rate of asthma has consistently declined. Currently, the mortality rate stands at 9.86 per million, compared to 15.09 per million in 2001. However, mortality rates remain consistently higher for Black patients than their White counterparts. According to the CDC, from 1999 to 2016, the asthma death rates among adults aged 55 to 64 were 16.32 per 1 million persons, 9.95 per 1 million for females, 9.39 per 1 million for individuals who were not Hispanic or Latino, and 25.60 per 1 million for Black patients.[20][21][22][23]

Pathophysiology

Asthma is a syndrome characterized by underlying mechanisms involving intricate interactions among inflammatory and resident airway cells. These mechanisms result in airway inflammation, intermittent airflow obstruction, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (see Image. Pathophysiology of Asthma). 

Airway Inflammation

The key to the development of clinical asthma lies in the activation of mast cells by cytokines and other mediators. Following initial allergen inhalation, affected patients exhibit an overexpression of the T-helper 2 subset (Th2) of lymphocytes relative to the Th1 type, leading to the production of specific IgE antibodies. The cytokines, including IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, produced by Th2 lymphocytes promote IgE and eosinophilic responses in atopy. Once produced, these specific IgE antibodies bind to receptors on mast cells and basophils. 

Additional allergen inhalation results in the cross-linking of allergen-specific IgE antibodies on the mast cell surface, causing rapid degranulation and release of histamine, prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), and cysteinyl leukotrienes such as LTC4, LTCD4, and LTCE4.[24][25] This process triggers contraction of the airway smooth muscle within minutes and may also stimulate reflex neural pathways. Subsequently, an influx of inflammatory cells, such as monocytes, dendritic cells, neutrophils, T lymphocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, may cause delayed bronchoconstriction 7 hours later. 

Airflow Obstruction

Variable narrowing of the airway lumen throughout the tracheobronchial tree results in differing levels of airflow obstruction. Several factors contribute to this narrowing, including the contraction of airway smooth muscle, thickening of the airway wall due to edema, mucus plugging in the airways, and airway remodeling.[25]

The contraction and relaxation of airway smooth muscle, triggered by mediators released from inflammatory cells or through reflex neural pathways, causes acute limitation in airflow. Mast cells and eosinophil mediators, such as histamine and leukotrienes, are potent inducers of bronchoconstriction.

Another notable aspect of asthma is the heightened sensitivity of the bronchial passages, characterized by an excessive tightening of the airway smooth muscles in response to various physical, chemical, or environmental triggers. The precise mechanism leading to this hyperresponsiveness remains unclear. Some researchers propose alterations in breathing patterns, where smooth muscles contract excessively or lack relaxation normally associated with deep breaths. In addition, they also propose alterations in smooth muscle function or mass, enhanced sensitivity of neural pathways leading to bronchoconstriction, and exaggerated airway narrowing from smooth muscle contraction as a consequence of remodeling and structural abnormalities of the airway.[26][27][26]

Airway remodeling, characterized by thickening of the basement membrane, collagen deposition, and shedding of epithelial cells, can result in irreversible changes in the airways. This process accelerates the decline in lung function, especially in patients with severe and early-onset asthma.[28] 

History and Physical

When initially diagnosing asthma, the history should concentrate on the presence and pattern of symptoms, any precipitating factors or conditions, and known asthma risk factors. For children with a confirmed diagnosis of asthma seeking follow-up care, the history should emphasize the presence, frequency, and severity of symptoms, recent emergency room visits or hospital admissions, the utilization of controller and rescue medications, and the assessment of proper inhaler techniques.

Cough and wheezing are frequently reported symptoms in children, with cough often being the sole presenting symptom.[29] Clinicians should consider asthma when evaluating a child with a cough, particularly if it primarily occurs at night or in response to specific triggers like cold air or exercise. Additionally, a persistent cough following a viral infection may suggest asthma. Poor school performance and excessive daytime fatigue may also indicate disrupted sleep due to nocturnal symptoms. Depending on the child's age, they may describe additional symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest tightness.

Physical examination may appear normal if the child is not currently symptomatic. However, additional examination findings may include nasal discharge, decreased air entry or wheezing, inflamed nasal mucosa, Dennie-Morgan lines, a transverse nasal crease, sinus tenderness, dark circles under the eyes, halitosis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, and nasal polyps. Nasal polyps can be associated with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease in adolescents and adults but should prompt an evaluation for cystic fibrosis in children. Features such as digital clubbing, a barrel chest, localized wheezing, urticarial rash, or stridor may suggest other diagnoses or comorbid conditions.[29][30]

During an acute exacerbation, potential symptoms include tachypnea, hypoxia, wheezing, a prolonged expiratory phase, and the use of accessory muscles, such as subcostal, intercostal, or supraclavicular retractions. Other signs may include nasal flaring, tripod positioning, inability to speak in complete sentences, or grunting. Notably, a child who initially exhibits significantly increased work of breathing but subsequently "tires out," appears to breathe at a normal rate, becomes lethargic, or no longer exhibits wheezing may be at risk of impending respiratory failure. Altered mental status, lethargy, unresponsiveness, cyanosis, or a "silent chest" are all signs indicating impending respiratory failure and arrest.

Evaluation

The presence of intermittent or chronic symptoms consistent with asthma, along with wheezing on physical examination, strongly suggests the diagnosis of asthma. Confirming the diagnosis involves excluding alternative diagnoses and demonstrating variable airflow limitation, typically observed on spirometry. 

Spirometry

Spirometry is recommended by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) for patients aged 5 and older. This technique evaluates forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) and forced vital capacity (FVC) by measuring a maximal inhalation followed by rapid and forceful exhalation into a spirometer. Asthma presents as an obstructive pattern on spirometry, indicated by an FEV₁ reduced to less than 80% predicted and an FEV₁/FVC ratio of less than 0.85 or 85%. FEV₁ serves as a reliable indicator of future exacerbations. In children with a normal FEV₁, a forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity (FEF_25%-75%) of less than 65% also correlates with reversible airflow.

All children should undergo spirometry before and after bronchodilator administration, as some may exhibit a significant response to bronchodilators despite having a normal FEV₁. An improvement of FEV₁ of 12% or more from baseline after administration of a short-acting bronchodilator indicates significant reversibility, although researchers established this value in adults. Some authors suggest an increase in FEV₁ of 8% or more may be better for children.[31][32] 

Diagnosing asthma for children aged 5 or younger can be challenging. Clinicians must rely on a pattern of symptoms indicative of asthma in addition to family history and physical examination findings. According to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), symptoms consistent with asthma in young children include:

• Recurrent, persistent cough that gets worse at night.

• Cough that worsens with exposure to triggers such as laughing, crying, exercise, or tobacco smoke exposure.

• Decreased level of activity compared to other children.

• Personal or family history of allergic or atopic disease.

• Improvement in symptoms with a 2- to 3-month trial of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) or worsening after stopping a trial of controller medication.

• Reversal of symptoms within the timeframe that albuterol should be effective. 

Allergy Testing

Selective allergy testing can help develop avoidance strategies for children exposed to furry animals, molds, cockroaches, or dust mites. Although outdoor allergens are rare triggers in infants and young children, they may affect older children. Food allergy testing is unnecessary unless the child has a clear history of gastrointestinal symptoms, shortness of breath, asthma, or urticaria temporally linked to ingesting specific foods. 

Bronchoprovocation Testing

During bronchoprovocation testing, clinicians induce bronchoconstriction using inhaled methacholine, cold air, or exercise. This testing may be beneficial for children suspected of having exercise-induced asthma, those with suspected asthma but normal spirometry, or patients presenting with atypical symptoms or an isolated cough. Patients receive increasing doses of the provocative agent, followed by spirometry to create a dose-response curve. A decrease in FEV₁ of 20% or more from baseline with the standard dose of methacholine or 15% or more with the standard dose of hypertonic saline, mannitol, or hyperventilation indicates a positive test.

Exhaled Nitric Oxide

Eosinophilic airway inflammation causes an upregulation of nitric oxide synthase in the respiratory mucosa and increased nitric oxide levels in the exhaled breath. The fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FE_NO) levels in some patients with asthma are higher than those without asthma. FE_NO is a noninvasive biomarker that indicates the presence of asthma and eosinophilic airway inflammation. A FE_NO of less than 25 ppb in adults and less than 20 ppb in children aged 12 or younger implies the absence of eosinophilic airway inflammation. A FE_NO greater than 35 ppb in children suggests eosinophilic airway inflammation. The exact role of FE_NO measurement in diagnosing and managing asthma is undefined.

Peak Flow

Peak expiratory flow measurement should not be used as the sole diagnostic tool for asthma in children. Although it can aid in monitoring asthma severity, serial spirometry is the preferred method for assessment.

Additional Testing

A chest radiograph is unnecessary unless the child fails to respond to initial therapy or there is suspicion of an alternative underlying pathology. A modified barium swallow is necessary for suspicion of aspiration or swallowing abnormalities. Clinicians should consider a sweat chloride test in children with recurrent respiratory complaints or pneumonia, frequent foul-smelling stool, malabsorption, and failure to thrive. 

Acute Exacerbation

Children presenting with an acute exacerbation should undergo a rapid assessment, including a complete set of vital signs and oxygen saturation. Essential observations are level of consciousness, anxiety, agitation, breathlessness, wheezing, air entry, accessory muscle use, and retractions.[33] In the hospital setting, severity scores such as the Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure (PRAM) help predict initial exacerbation severity, assess response to treatment, and help determine if hospitalization is necessary.[34] 

Clinicians may also assess severity using peak flow measurement, although this method is less common in children. Children aged 6 or younger may struggle to perform these measurements accurately, and very ill children may be unable to provide 3 readings. Asthma exacerbations are diagnosed clinically and do not require routine laboratory or imaging studies.

A chest radiograph is warranted in cases of asymmetric lung findings, chest pain, unexplained fever, worsening symptoms despite treatment, and when the patient is critically ill. Common findings on chest radiographs in acute asthma exacerbations include hyperinflated lungs and interstitial prominence. Focal consolidation on a chest radiograph suggests the presence of pneumonia.

Additional laboratory studies, such as arterial blood gas analysis, may be warranted in patients with worsening symptoms despite treatment or in critically ill patients. However, these tests should not delay the initiation of bronchodilator therapy. 

Treatment / Management

The initial treatment of pediatric asthma is determined by assessing the intensity and severity of symptoms and the likelihood of future exacerbations. In children aged 5 or younger, the risk of developing persistent asthma is also considered. This assessment involves evaluating the frequency of daytime and nocturnal symptoms, using short-acting β-agonists (SABA) for symptom management, assessing the impact of symptoms on daily activities, and conducting spirometry tests in children aged 5 and older. In addition, the number of exacerbations requiring glucocorticoids in the previous year helps determine the risk of future exacerbations.

Rather than evaluating severity, healthcare professionals assess the level of symptom control in patients already receiving controller therapy. Experts advise including spirometry alongside assessing symptoms and medication usage to gauge asthma control effectively. Clinicians can consider measuring FE_NO if uncertainty exists regarding diagnosis or level of management.

Non-Pharmacological Management

Non-pharmacological management of asthma involves various patient education strategies. According to the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program-Expert Panel Report 3: Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma, personalized one-on-one education from the patient's primary clinician proves highly effective. Studies indicate that such education reduces asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations. Healthcare professionals should provide culturally specific asthma education that explains asthma and its symptoms, individual triggers, and avoidance strategies. Avoiding environmental triggers that could trigger asthma, such as firsthand or secondhand tobacco smoke, food or medication triggers, as well as pollutants and irritants, is vital.[35]

Patients and caregivers must grasp the correct inhaler technique and distinguish between rescue, controller, and combination medications. Clinicians should actively explore potential barriers to medication adherence and work collaboratively with patients to resolve any concerns or obstacles, thereby enhancing medication compliance.

Pharmacological Management

The following is a general overview of the stepwise process outlined by GINA for choosing pharmacological therapy in children aged 5 and younger. Tables 1 and 2 provide comprehensive details on the NAEPP and GINA guidelines, including alternative therapeutic options. Variations in the guidelines notably commence from Step 3 onward. Table 3 provides a detailed description of the NAEPP and GINA guidelines for the stepwise management of asthma for children aged 5 to 11.

• Step 1: Every child experiencing wheezing should be able to use an SABA. The only exception is infants aged 1 or younger who present with wheezing caused by bronchiolitis. If patients require an SABA more than twice a week for 1 month, they should progress to step 2.

• Step 2: Healthcare professionals should initiate a daily low-dose ICS along with SABA as needed, maintaining this regimen for at least 3 months. If symptoms remain poorly controlled, clinicians must verify the absence of an alternative diagnosis, ensure compliance with prescribed medication, assess inhaler technique, and investigate exposure to tobacco smoke or environmental allergens.

• Step 3: Doubling the initial dose of the ICS for a period of 3 months is recommended. If asthma symptoms persist despite this adjustment, referral to an asthma specialist is warranted.

• Step 4: Treatment options at this stage may involve further increasing the ICS dosage, adding a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA), combining a long-acting β-agonist (LABA) with ICS, or introducing a low-dose oral corticosteroid (OCS) until symptom improvement is observed.

Table 1. National Asthma Education and Prevention Program: Expert Panel Working Group. Initial Asthma Therapy in Infants and Children Aged 4 or Younger, With Recurrent Wheezing

Abbreviations: ICS, inhaled corticosteroids; LABA, long-acting β-agonist; LTRA, leukotriene receptor antagonist; OCS, oral corticosteroid; SABA, short-acting β-agonist.

*Risk factors for future asthma exacerbations include uncontrolled asthma symptoms, experiencing one or more severe exacerbations in the last year, exposure to tobacco smoke or other known triggers, outdoor pollution, psychological and socioeconomic stressors affecting the child and their family, and outdoor pollution.

Table 2. Global Initiative for Asthma. Initial Asthma Therapy in Infants and Children Aged 5 or Younger, With Recurrent Wheezing

Abbreviations: ICS, inhaled corticosteroids; LABA, long-acting β-agonist; LTRA, leukotriene receptor antagonist; OCS, oral corticosteroid; SABA, short-acting β-agonist.

Table 3. Management of Asthma in Children Aged 5 Through 11 

Abbreviations: FEV₁, forced expiratory volume in 1 second; FVC, forced vital capacity; ICS, inhaled corticosteroids; LABA, long-acting β-agonist; LTRA, leukotriene receptor antagonist; OCS, oral corticosteroid; SABA, short-acting β-agonist.

Children aged 5 or younger should use a pressurized metered dose inhaler (MDI) with a valved spacer. Depending on their age, a face mask may also be helpful. Typically, an average child takes 5 to 10 breaths to empty a spacer. Nebulizers are the only alternative for young children. Routine follow-up every 1 to 3 months is necessary to ensure adequate symptom management. Upon reevaluation, patients who experience poor asthma symptom control, exacerbations requiring systemic glucocorticoids, or are at high risk of an exacerbation at their current step of therapy escalate to the next level of treatment. After maintaining good control for 3 to 6 months, clinicians can attempt stepwise therapy reduction based on GINA or NAEPP guidelines.

Asthma action plans are necessary for all patients with asthma. These plans are individualized and developed in collaboration with each patient and caregiver. They include detailed directions for managing asthma during periods of wellness, at the onset of symptoms, and during acute exacerbations requiring medical evaluation.[36] The NAEPP provides sample asthma action plans for children aged 0 to 5, patients aged 5 or older, and for use in school settings. Please refer to the Deterrence and Patient Education section of this activity for a link to a printable action plan. Clinicians develop an asthma action plan based on symptoms or peak flow readings and divide it into 3 zones—green, yellow, and red. Patients in the green zone are asymptomatic, with peak flows at 80% or better than their personal best. They feel good and continue to take their long-term control medication. Peak flow readings in the yellow zone are 50% to 79% of the patient's personal best, and symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath begin to interfere with activity levels. In the red zone, patients experience peak flow readings below 50% of their best, accompanied by severe shortness of breath, and an inability to perform everyday activities.

Biological Agents

Biological agents are possible for children aged 6 and older who have not responded to traditional therapies. The candidates for omalizumab, a monoclonal antibody against IgE, are children with sensitization to at least 1 perennial aeroallergen and moderate-to-severe asthma. Dupilumab, another monoclonal antibody targeting the IL-4 receptor and inhibiting IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, is used in children aged 6 and older as additional maintenance therapy. Mepolizumab, which targets the IL-5 receptor, is utilized in children with severe eosinophilic asthma.

Acute Exacerbation

Patients experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation may manage symptoms at home or require urgent medical care, depending on severity and risk factors for fatal asthma. Urgent medical attention is needed for those with marked shortness of breath, inability to speak more than short phrases, use of accessory muscles, mental status changes, or at high risk of fatal exacerbation, which requires urgent medical attention. Risk factors that predict a fatal asthma exacerbation include:

• Previous life-threatening exacerbation
• Exacerbation despite OCS use
• Multiple emergency room visits (3 or more) or hospitalizations (more than 1) in the last year
• Use of more than 1 SABA MDI per month
• Food allergies
• Chronic heart or lung disease
• Medication nonadherence
• Psychosocial stresssors

Home or Office Care

At the onset of an exacerbation, the patient should receive rescue medication with a repeat dose 20 minutes after the initial dose. Typical formulations include:

• Albuterol MDI of 2 to 4 puffs or nebulization solution dose of 1.25 to 2.5 mg for children aged 4 or younger and 2.5 to 5 mg if the children are aged 4 to 11 when using a SABA.

• Budesonide-formoterol of 1 puff or up to a maximum dosage of 8 puffs per day in children aged 4 and older with moderate-to-severe persistent asthma.

Children aged 6 to 11 with severe symptoms or those with mild-to-moderate symptoms and are at high risk of a fatal exacerbation should also receive OCS soon after beginning SABAs. However, guidelines do not support caregiver administration of OCS to children aged 5 and younger. 

Patients who respond well to inhaling their SABA and do not experience recurrence of symptoms within 4 hours can stay at home and continue the SABA every 4 to 6 hours as needed. However, patients who do not fully respond should receive a third dose of rescue medication and contact their clinician for further instructions or proceed to the emergency department. 

Patients presenting to the office may receive up to 3 doses of a higher dose of SABA, such as 4 to 8 puffs of an albuterol MDI or 2.5 mg to 5 mg via nebulizer over 1 hour. Patients with moderate-to-severe symptoms can also receive inhaled ipratropium with the dosage based on age and weight. Patients who do not respond to 3 doses or who continue to require oxygen after the first or second bronchodilator dose should be transferred to the emergency department. If not already administered, OCS should be given.

Emergency Room Care

In the emergency room, the severity of an asthma exacerbation is generally determined by clinical assessment, aided by scales such as the Pulmonary Index Score and the Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure.  

All patients should receive oxygen to maintain saturations above 92%.[37] Within the first hour, patients then receive 3 treatments of an inhaled SABA like albuterol via a nebulizer or MDI, followed by repeat dosing every 1 to 4 hours. Nebulized treatments are administered individually or continuously. Research comparing the efficacy of an MDI combined with a valved-holding chamber to nebulizer delivery reveals that administration via MDI is at least as effective as small-volume nebulizers.[38][39][40] The advantages of nebulizer use in children are the ability to administer humidified oxygen and ipratropium simultaneously. The NAEPP dosing recommendations for albuterol MDI in the emergency room for acute asthma exacerbations are 4 to 8 puffs.

One potential dosing strategy includes:

• Body weight 5 to 10 kg: 4 puffs
• Body weight 10 to 20 kg: 6 puffs
• Body weight  more than 20 kg: 8 puffs

The individualized dose of nebulized albuterol is 0.15 mg/kg, with a minimum of 2.5 mg and a maximum of 5 mg. The dosing for continuous albuterol nebulizer treatment varies. One protocol includes:

• Body weight 5 to 10 kg: 5 to 7.5 mg/h
• Body weight 10 to 20 kg: 10 to 12.5 mg/h
• Body weight more than 20 kg: 15 to 20 mg/h

In addition to a SABA, patients with moderate-to-severe asthma exacerbations receive inhaled ipratropium, a short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA), at a dosage of 250 µg for children with a body weight of less than 20 kg and 500 µg for those with a body weight of more than 20 kg by nebulization or 4 to 8 puffs by MDI, every 20 minutes for 3 doses. Treatment with 2 to 3 doses of ipratropium combined with a SABA reduces hospitalization rates when compared to children who receive SABA therapy alone.[41]

Magnesium Sulfate

NAEPP guidelines suggest that children aged 4 or older who present with a severe asthma exacerbation or those who do not respond to SABAs, ipratropium, and glucocorticoids receive magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) 25 to 75 mg/kg with a maximum of 2 g intravenously (IV) over 20 minutes.[42][43] A meta-analysis reveals that the addition of MgSO₄ to the treatment regimen for children with severe exacerbations reduces hospital admissions.[44][45] However, it is noteworthy that kidney failure is a relative contraindication to the use of MgSO_4.  

Parenteral β-Agonists

Subcutaneous and intramuscular β-agonists, such as epinephrine and terbutaline, are possible treatment options for children presenting with severe symptoms, extremely poor air flow, or those unable to cooperate with nebulizer treatments. In severe cases, clinicians may administer these agents rapidly alongside nebulized albuterol.

Glucocorticoids

As with outpatient therapy, clinicians should administer glucocorticoids promptly to children with moderate-to-severe asthma exacerbations, as their early administration reduces hospital admission rates. Oral and IV glucocorticoids have equivalent effects when given in comparable doses.[46] OCS are equally efficacious and preferred due to their less invasive nature. Dexamethasone, at 0.6 mg/kg/d for 2 days, is often preferred in the emergency department due to its long half-life and equivalent efficacy to prednisone.[47][48] When administering prednisone or prednisolone, the dosage is 1 to 2 mg/kg/d with a maximum dosage of 20 mg/d in children aged 0 to 2, 30 mg/d in children aged 3 to 5, and 40 mg/d in children aged 6 to 11 for 3 to 5 days. A shorter course and lower dose of OCS are equally as effective as a higher dose and longer course. IV steroids are necessary for patients with impending or actual respiratory arrest or those who are intolerant of oral glucocorticoids. 

Impending Respiratory Failure

Clinicians should promptly notify the intensive care unit team or anesthesiology if children continue to decompensate or exhibit cyanosis, inability to sustain respiratory effort, decreased mental status, oxygen saturation below 90%, or respiratory acidosis. IV terbutaline and a trial of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, including continuous positive airway pressure or bilevel positive airway support, may be beneficial in such cases.

Indications for endotracheal intubation include:  

• Respiratory or cardiac arrest
• Hypoxemia despite high concentrations of oxygen or noninvasive positive pressure ventilation
• Severe increased work of breathing 
• Altered mental status

Differential Diagnosis

The following list includes the differential diagnoses for asthma in children aged 12 or younger:

Upper Airway Diseases

• Allergic rhinitis and sinusitis [49]

Large Airway Obstruction

• Foreign body aspiration
• Vascular ring or laryngeal webs
• Laryngomalacia
• Tracheomalacia
• Lymphadenopathy
• Mass
• Epiglottitis
• Vocal cord dysfunction [49]

Small Airway Obstruction

• Bronchiolitis or wheezing associated with respiratory infections
• Cystic fibrosis
• Primary ciliary dyskinesia
• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia [49] 

Other Causes

• Congestive heart failure
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Anaphylaxis
• Angioedema
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (more likely in adults)
• Pulmonary embolism
• Recurrent aspiration
• Immunodeficiency
• Pulmonary edema
• Cardiomegaly
• Atypical infection with Mycoplasma pneumonia [49]

Prognosis

Childhood asthma patterns are strong predictors of long-term outcomes. Episodic asthma tends to result in better adult outcomes, whereas persistent childhood asthma often leads to ongoing symptoms and modest lung function impairment in adulthood. Research suggests that 30% to 70% of children with asthma experience significant improvement or become symptom-free by early adulthood.[50] However, nearly 75% of those with asthma and wheezing during adolescence continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. Persistent asthma is associated with factors such as atopy, low lung function, and increased airway hyperresponsiveness, with sensitization and exposure to indoor allergens posing a 3-fold higher risk.

Effective asthma management is crucial for long-term prognosis. The goals of asthma management include reducing the risk of future exacerbations, preventing hindered lung development in children, preserving lung function, and minimizing adverse medication effects. Factors such as a history of exacerbations within the past year, poor adherence to asthma medication, improper inhaler technique, reduced lung function, smoking or vaping, elevated FE_NO levels, and blood eosinophilia all contribute to an elevated risk of exacerbations and poorer prognosis.

Complications

Complications associated with asthma can stem from the condition itself or from medications and therapeutic interventions. The following lists outline potential complications of asthma:

Complications of Asthma

• Pneumonia
• Interference with school and sports
• Lung remodeling
• Poor sleep and fatigue
• Death

Complications due to Endotracheal Intubation

• Hypotension
• Pneumothorax (also a complication of asthma)
• Myopathy
• Pneumomediastinum (also a complication of asthma)
• Pneumoperitoneum
• Subcutaneous emphysema
• Aspiration
• Subglottic stenosis
• Infection
• Gastrointestinal bleeding due to stress ulcers

Complications due to Medications

• Potential neuropsychiatric symptoms such as agitation, depression, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts or actions associated with montelukast, which is a LTRA
• Dysphonia and oral candidiasis resulting from ICS
• Rare occurrences of adrenal insufficiency attributed to ICS [51]
• Slight reduction in linear growth velocity due to ICS use [52]
• Glaucoma, cataracts, adrenal insufficiency, and hyperglycemia due to OCS
• Decreased serum potassium, phosphate, and magnesium, and increase in serum glucose associated with albuterol [53]
• Stress-induced or takotsubo cardiomyopathy associated with the treatment of status asthmaticus [54]

Consultations

According to the guidelines from the NAEPP and GINA, challenges in confirming an asthma diagnosis or uncertainties regarding a prior diagnosis warrant consideration for evaluation by a pulmonology or allergy specialist. This is particularly important if signs or symptoms suggest an alternative or exacerbating condition. Referral is also recommended for children with a history of severe asthma exacerbations, such as ICU admissions or requiring mechanical ventilation, as well as for those experiencing frequent hospitalizations or needing 2 or more courses of oral glucocorticoids within a year.

Specialist input is advisable when asthma control remains inadequate despite active therapy and appropriate monitoring, when children aged 5 or older require step 3 or 4 level therapy, or when children younger than 5 necessitate step 2 or higher therapy. Additional circumstances warranting specialist involvement include cases requiring further diagnostic tests, such as allergy skin testing, or consideration of allergen immunotherapy or biologic therapy. Ensuring timely specialist involvement in these scenarios can optimize asthma management and enhance patient outcomes.

Deterrence and Patient Education

In pediatric asthma management, patient education is pivotal in deterring exacerbations and promoting optimal disease control. Central to this approach is educating both caregivers and children about asthma triggers, recognizing symptoms, and the importance of following prescribed treatment plans. Caregivers and patients should understand how to recognize early warning signs of exacerbations and be instructed on when and how to seek prompt medical assistance. Furthermore,  teaching proper usage of inhalers, spacer devices, and monitoring techniques such as peak flow measurements builds confidence in managing asthma at home. In addition, it is essential to discuss the potential adverse effects of asthma medications with caregivers, empowering them to identify adverse reactions and make informed decisions about their child's healthcare.

Furthermore, emphasizing the importance of avoiding tobacco smoke, allergens, and environmental pollutants can significantly mitigate asthma exacerbations. Developing an asthma action plan tailored to the child's needs and level of asthma control provides a structured approach for managing exacerbations and adjusting treatment as necessary. Please refer to the following link for an asthma action plan download from the CDC, "Asthma Action Plan." Scheduled follow-up visits with healthcare professionals enable continual evaluation of symptom management and medication performance and the opportunity to address any concerns or apprehensions. By integrating comprehensive patient education, medication management, and personalized asthma action plans, clinicians can empower families to proactively manage pediatric asthma and improve long-term outcomes.

Pearls and Other Issues

• Not all cases of wheezing indicate asthma. Clinicians must remember that wheezing has a broad differential.

• Clinicians should be cautious with patients exhibiting significant respiratory distress despite apparently normal blood gas levels, as well as those who appear lethargic or altered, as they may be approaching respiratory failure and subsequent cardiac arrest.

• Patients who necessitate continuous nebulized treatments or interventions beyond standard medications, such as albuterol, ipratropium, and steroids, may be experiencing status asthmatics. This requires hospital admission for comprehensive evaluation and treatment.

• Importantly, clinicians should investigate common asthma triggers, such as upper respiratory tract infections, allergens, and exercise, as well as less common triggers, such as gastroesophageal reflux, medications, and psychological distress

Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Pediatric asthma is a prevalent and multifaceted respiratory condition most often characterized by recurrent wheezing and coughing. These symptoms result from variable expiratory airflow limitation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and inflammation. Although asthma can occur at any stage of life, it frequently initiates during childhood, and the pattern of asthma during childhood is highly indicative of long-term outcomes. A substantial portion of cases that persist into adolescence continue into adulthood, especially when accompanied by atopy, low lung function, and elevated airway hyperresponsiveness. 

For optimal management, healthcare professionals need to integrate comprehensive patient education, evidence-based medication administration following a stepwise therapeutic approach tailored to symptom severity, and personalized asthma action plans. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals are vital for continuous assessment of asthma control and medication effectiveness, as well as for addressing any concerns or questions. Effective interprofessional communication is crucial for keeping all team members informed about acute exacerbations, emergency department visits, hospital admissions, and medication changes, ensuring seamless care coordination across different healthcare settings. 

A collaborative approach among healthcare professionals is crucial for enhancing patient-centered care, ensuring patient safety, and reducing morbidity and mortality. Physicians, advanced practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals each contribute unique skills and expertise to the care team. By leveraging these skills collaboratively, the team can develop an individualized comprehensive strategy for pediatric asthma care. Such a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach will optimize pediatric asthma care, providing safe, effective, patient-centered treatment while enhancing team performance and improving patient outcomes.[55][56][57]