Evaluation of the wheezy infant

Citation
Rl. Morton et al., Evaluation of the wheezy infant, ANN ALLER A, 86(3), 2001, pp. 251-256
Citations number
50
Categorie Soggetti
Clinical Immunolgy & Infectious Disease
Journal title
ANNALS OF ALLERGY ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY
ISSN journal
10811206 → ACNP
Volume
86
Issue
3
Year of publication
2001
Pages
251 - 256
Database
ISI
SICI code
1081-1206(200103)86:3<251:EOTWI>2.0.ZU;2-6
Abstract
Background: The infant with persistent or recurrent wheezing during the fir st 2 years of life poses a diagnostic dilemma, which can be a source of anx iety to both physicians and parents. A suggested diagnostic approach to the causes of infantile wheezing is outlined. Objectives: 1. To review the physiologic considerations of the infant's air ways that predispose to wheezing. 2. To discuss the key physical findings, family history, and risk factors associated with wheezing in infants. 3. To develop a rational approach to the differential diagnosis and management o f infantile wheezing. Data Sources: The MEDLINE database as well as our clinical experience perta ining to infantile wheezing. Conclusions: This review discusses the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of the wheezing infant. We suggest that infant pulmonary function testing m ay be used as one diagnostic aid in the workup of the wheezing infant.