Current strategies and perspectives for active and passive immunization against Respiratory Syncytial Virus in childhood

Abstract Objectives: Despite the global impact of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection in children, only one monoclonal antibody (Palivizumab) has been approved for clinical use. However, advances in the knowledge of RSV immunology may enable the development of safe and effective new vaccines and monoclonal antibodies in a few years. The purpose of this review is to summarize available data on approved and developing passive and active immunizations against RSV in childhood and pregnancy. Data source: A non-systematic review of RSV immunoprophylaxis in childhood and pregnancy was carried out in PubMed, path.org and clinical trial registries, without language restrictions, up to September 2022. Data synthesis: Three monoclonal antibodies and 17 active immunization candidates are under development in phase 1 to 3 clinical studies. Regarding the first group, Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody with a prolonged half-life whose approval for clinical use is expected in the next months. Among the vaccines under development, six techniques are being used: protein subunit, viral particles, live attenuated virus, recombinant viral vector, chimeric, and mRNA. The first two approaches are being tested primarily in pregnancy, while the others are being developed for the pediatric population. Conclusion: The approval of extended half-life monoclonal antibodies is the next expected advance in RSV prevention, although the costs may be a barrier to the implementation. Regarding active immunizations, maternal and infant vaccination are complementary strategies and there are many promising candidates in clinical studies using different platforms.

Rhinovirus as the main co-circulating virus during the COVID-19 pandemic in children

Abstract Objective: Changes in the epidemiology of respiratory infections during the restrictions imposed as a response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have been reported elsewhere. The present study's aim was to describe the prevalence of a large array of respiratory pathogens in symptomatic children and adolescents during the pandemic in Southern Brazil. Methods: Hospitalized and outpatients aged 2 months to 18 years with signs and symptoms of acute COVID-19 were prospectively enrolled in the study from May to November 2020 in two hospitals in a large metropolitan area in a Brazilian city. All participants performed a real-time PCR panel assessing 20 respiratory pathogens (three bacteria and 17 viruses). Results: 436 participants were included, with 45 of these hospitalized. Rhinovirus was the most prevalent pathogen (216/436) followed by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, 97/436), with a coinfection of these two viruses occurring in 31/436 participants. The remaining pathogens were found in 24 symptomatic participants (adenovirus, n = 6; Chlamydophila pneumoniae, n = 1; coronavirus NL63, n = 2; human enterovirus, n = 7; human metapneu-movirus, n = 2; Mycoplasma pneumoniae, n = 6). Hospitalization was more common among infants (p = 0.004) and those with pathogens other than SARS-CoV-2 (p = 0.001). Conclusion: During the period of social distancing in response to COVID-19, the prevalence of most respiratory pathogens was unusually low. Rhinovirus remained as the main virus co-circulating with SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 in symptomatic children was less associated with hospitalization than with other respiratory infections in children and adolescents.

Association between obesity and hospitalization in mild COVID-19 adult outpatients in Brazil: a prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the association between obesity and hospitalization in mild COVID-19 adult outpatients in Brazil. Subjects and methods: Adults with signs and symptoms suggestive of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection who sought treatment in two hospital (public and private) emergency departments were prospectively enrolled. Patients with confirmed COVID-19 at inclusion were followed by phone calls at days D7, D14 and D28. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to explore the association between obesity and other potential predictors for hospitalization. Results: A total of 1,050 participants were screened, and 297 completed the 28-day follow-up and were diagnosed with COVID-19 by RT-PCR. The median age was 37.2 (IQR 29.7-44.6) years, and 179 (60.0%) were female. The duration of symptoms was 3.0 (IQR 2.0-5.0) days, and 10.0 (IQR 8.0-12.0) was the median number of symptoms at inclusion. Ninety-five (32.0%) individuals had obesity, and 233 (78.5%) had no previous medical conditions. Twenty-three participants (7.7%) required hospitalization during the follow-up period. After adjusting, obesity (BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2) (OR = 2.69, 95% CI 1.63-4.83, P < 0.001) and older age (OR = 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.09, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with higher risks of hospitalization. Conclusion: Obesity, followed by aging, was the main factor associated with hospital admission for COVID-19 in a young population in a low-middle income country. Our findings highlighted the need to promote additional protection for individuals with obesity, such as vaccination, and to encourage lifestyle changes.

Low performance of a SARS-CoV-2 point-of-care lateral flow immunoassay in symptomatic children during the pandemic

Abstract Objective: to evaluate the accuracy of an antibody point-of-care lateral flow immunoassay (LFI -Wondfo Biotech Co., Guangzhou, China) in a pediatric population. Methods: children and adolescents (2 months to 18 years) with signs and symptoms suggestive of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection were prospectively investigated with nasopharyngeal RT-PCR and LFI at the emergency room. RT-PCR was performed at baseline, and LFI at the same time or scheduled for those with less than 7 days of the clinical picture. Overall accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were assessed, as well as according to the onset of symptoms (7-13 or ≥14 days) at the time of the LFI test. Results: In 175 children included, RT-PCR and LFI were positive in 51 (29.14%) and 36 (20.57%), respectively. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value was 70.6% (95%CI 56.2-82.5), 96.8% (95%CI 91.9-99.1), 90.0% (95%CI 77.2-96.0), and 88.9% (95%CI 83.9-92.5), respectively. At 7-13 and ≥14 days after the onset of symptoms, sensitivity was 60.0% (95%CI 26.2-87.8) and 73.2% (95%CI 57.1-85.8) and specificity was 97.9% (95%CI 88.7-99.9) and 96.1% (95%CI 89.0-99.2), respectively. Conclusion: Despite its high specificity, in the present study the sensitivity of LFI in children was lower (around 70%) than most reports in adults. Although a positive result is informative, a negative LFI test cannot rule out COVID-19 in children.

Evaluation of the direct and indirect impact on pneumonia hospitalization after almost a decade of the 10-valent pneumococcal non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae protein D conjugate vaccine in Brazil

Introduction: Pneumococcal pneumonia is a leading cause of severe disease, leading to approximately 2.2 million hospital admissions in 2019 in Brazil. Since 2010, the 10-valent pneumococcal non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae protein D conjugate vaccine was introduced in Brazil, as part of the National Immunization Program (NIP) with universal access, approximated coverage of 91.4% in 2019. Although studies from many countries are available, there is still a need to understand the effect of the vaccine introduction on the incidence of pneumonia hospitalizations in Brazil.Methods: Data on hospitalization associated with the diagnosis of pneumonia in the population assisted by the Brazilian Public Health System were accessed to fit a time series analysis, which tested the main hypothesis of the influence of vaccination on the trends for the incidence of pneumonia hospitalizations.Results: The post-vaccination period showed a negative trend, reducing 1.75, 0.16, and 0.11 cases per 100,000 inhabitants per month for the groups < 1, 1­4, and 5­9 years old, respectively. In individuals older than 20 years, the post-vaccination period has a positive trend, but not as great as compared trends before the vaccination period. These results indicate a protective herd effect in the older population, nine years after introducing the pneumococcal vaccine in the NIP.Conclusion: Vaccination with pneumococcal conjugated vaccine reduces hospitalizations associated with pneumonia diagnosis in vaccinated and non-vaccinated populations in a sustained and progressive manner.

Diagnostic accuracy of a SARS-CoV-2 rapid test and optimal time for seropositivity according to the onset of symptoms / Acurácia diagnóstica de um teste rápido para SARS-CoV-2 e tempo ótimo para a soropositividade a partir do início dos sintomas / Precisión diagnóstica del test rápido SARS-CoV-2 y período óptimo para la seropositividad según la aparición de síntomas

Point-of-care serological tests for SARS-CoV-2 have been used for COVID-19 diagnosis. However, their accuracy over time regarding the onset of symptoms is not fully understood. We aimed to assess the accuracy of a point-of-care lateral flow immunoassay (LFI). Subjects, aged over 18 years, presenting clinical symptoms suggestive of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection were tested once by both nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal RT-PCR and LFI. The accuracy of LFI was assessed in periodic intervals of three days in relation to the onset of symptoms. The optimal cut-off point was defined as the number of days required to achieve the best sensitivity and specificity. This cut-off point was also used to compare LFI accuracy according to participants' status: outpatient or hospitalized. In total, 959 patients were included, 379 (39.52%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 with RT-PCR, and 272 (28.36%) tested positive with LFI. LFI best performance was achieved after 10 days of the onset of symptoms, with sensitivity and specificity of 84.9% (95%CI: 79.8-89.1) and 94.4% (95%CI: 91.0-96.8), respectively. Although the specificity was similar (94.6% vs. 88.9%, p = 0.051), the sensitivity was higher in hospitalized patients than in outpatients (91.7% vs. 82.1%, p = 0.032) after 10 days of the onset of symptoms. Best sensitivity of point-of-care LFI was found 10 days after the onset of symptoms which may limit its use in acute care. Specificity remained high regardless of the number of days since the onset of symptoms.

Os testes sorológicos no local de atendimento (point-of-care) para a infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2 têm sidos utilizados para o diagnóstico da COVID-19. Entretanto, não está plenamente elucidada a acurácia dos testes ao longo do tempo em relação ao início dos sintomas. Nosso objetivo foi de avaliar a acurácia, no local de atendimento, do imunoensaio de fluxo lateral (LFI). Pacientes com ≥ 18 anos de idade que apresentavam sintomas clínicos sugestivos de infecção aguda pelo SARS-CoV-2 foram testados uma vez com RT-PCR da nasofaringe e orofaringe, além do LFI. A acurácia do LFI foi avaliada com intervalos periódicos de 3 dias a partir do início dos sintomas. O ponto de corte ótimo foi definido como o número necessário de dias para atingir a melhor sensibilidade e especificidade. Esse ponto foi utilizado também para comparar a acurácia do LFI de acordo com a situação do paciente (ambulatorial ou hospitalizado). Foram incluídos 959 pacientes, dos quais 379 (39,52%) testaram positivos para SARS-CoV-2 pelo RT-PCR e 272 (28,36%) pelo LFI. Foi atingido o melhor desempenho para o LFI com 10 dias a partir do início dos sintomas, com sensibilidade e especificidade de 84,9% (IC95%: 79,8-89,1) e 94,4% (IC95%: 91,0-96,8), respectivamente. Embora a especificidade não tenha sido diferente entre os grupos de pacientes (94,6% vs. 88,9%, p = 0,051), a sensibilidade foi mais alta nos pacientes hospitalizados que nos ambulatoriais (91,7% vs. 82,1%, p = 0,032) no dia 10 depois do início dos sintomas. A melhor sensibilidade do LFI no local de atendimento ocorre 10 dias depois do início dos sintomas, o que pode limitar seu uso no atendimento agudo. A especificidade permanece alta, independentemente do número de dias desde o início dos sintomas.

Los puestos de atención para pruebas serológicas del SARS-CoV-2 han sido usado para la diagnosis de la COVID-19. No obstante, su precisión a lo largo del tiempo, en lo que respecta a la aparición de los síntomas, no se ha comprendido completamente. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la precisión de un puesto de atención de inmunoanálisis de flujo lateral (LFI). Se hizo pruebas a individuos ≥ 18 años, presentando síntomas clínicos compatibles con una infección aguda de SARS-CoV-2, tanto vía nasofaríngea y orofaríngea RT-PCR, como LFI. La precisión de LFI fue evaluada en intervalos periódicos de 3 días con respecto a la aparición de los síntomas. El punto óptimo de corte se definió como el número de días requerido para alcanzar la mejor sensibilidad y especificidad. Este punto también se usó para comparar la precisión del LFI, según el estatus de los participantes: ambulatorios u hospitalizados. Se incluyeron a 959 pacientes, 379 (39,52%) dieron positivo en las pruebas de SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR, y 272 (28,36%) fueron positivos en los LFI. Se alcanzó el mejor rendimiento de los LFI tras 10 días de la aparición de los síntomas, con una sensibilidad y especificidad de un 84,9% (IC95%: 79,8-89,1) y 94,4% (IC95%: 91,0-96,8), respectivamente. A pesar de que la especificidad no fue diferente (94,6% vs. 88,9%, p = 0,051), la sensibilidad fue mayor en pacientes hospitalizados que en los ambulatorios (91,7% vs. 82,1%, p = 0,032) tras 10 días desde la aparición de los síntomas. La mejor sensibilidad LFI del puesto de cuidado se produce tras 10 días de la aparición de los síntomas, lo que quizás limite su uso en el cuidado de urgencias. La especificidad permanece alta independientemente del número de días desde la aparición de los síntomas.

Association between interleukin-10 polymorphisms and CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T cells in asthmatic children

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between possible functional interleukin-10 (IL-10) polymorphisms, IL-10 expression and regulatory T cells (Tregs) frequency, and/or asthma severity in a sample of children and adolescents. Methods: This is a nested case-control genetic association study. The study sample consisted of children and adolescents aged 8-14 from public schools. Four polymorphisms of the IL-10 gene (rs1518111, rs3024490, rs3024496, rs3024491) were genotyped in asthmatic subjects and controls using real-time PCR. Tregs cells and IL-10 were analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by flow cytometry. The severity of asthma was defined according to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guideline. Results: One hundred twenty-three asthmatic subjects and fifty-eight controls participated in the study. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3024491 (T allele) showed association with asthma severity, presenting a higher frequency in patients in the moderate asthma group. The T allele of variant rs3024491 also showed an association with reduced IL-10 levels (p = 0.01) and with increased Tregs frequency (p = 0.01). The other variants did not present consistent associations. Conclusions: Our results suggest that moderate asthma is associated with a higher frequency of the T allele in the SNP rs3024491. In addition, the variant rs3024491 (TT) was associated with a reduction in IL-10 production and an increased percentage of Tregs cells, suggesting possible mechanisms that influence asthma severity.

High-resolution CT pulmonary findings in children with severe asthma

Abstract Objective: To compare quantitative CT parameters between children with severe asthma and healthy subjects, correlating to their clinical features. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed CT data from 19 school-aged children (5-17 years) with severe asthma and 19 control school-aged children with pectus excavatum. The following CT parameters were evaluated: total lung volume (TLV), mean lung density (MLD), CT air trapping index (AT%) (attenuation ≤856 HU), airway wall thickness (AWT), and percentage of airway wall thickness (AWT%). Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) data were correlated to the following clinical parameters: forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory flow at 25-75% (FEF 25-75%), FEV1/FVC ratio, sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage analysis, serum IgE levels, and previous hospitalizations due to asthma. Results: Asthma patients presented higher mean values of AT% (23.8 ± 6.7% vs. controls, 9.7 ± 3.2%), AWT (1.46 ± 0.22 mm vs. controls, 0.47 ± −735 ± 28 HU vs. controls, −666 ± 19 HU). Mean AT% was 29.0 ± 4.7% in subjects with previous hospitalization against 19.2 ± 5.0% in those with no prior hospitalization (p < 0.001). AT% presented very strong negative correlations with FVC (r = −0.933, p < 0.001) and FEV1 (r = −0.841, p < 0.001) and a moderate correlation with FEF 25-75% (r = −0.608, p = 0.007). AT% correlation with FEV1/FVC ratio and serum IgE was weak (r = −0.184, p = 0.452, and r = −0.363, p = 0.202) Conclusion: Children with severe asthma present differences in quantitative chest CT scans compared to healthy controls with strong correlations with pulmonary function tests and previous hospitalizations due to asthma.

Development and validation of the specific instrument for assistance complexity of puerperal and newborns: Fantinelli Scale / Desenvolvimento e validação do instrumento específico para complexidade assistencial de puérperas e recém-nascidos: Escala Fantinelli

Abstract Objectives: to develop and validate a care complexity assessment system adapted for mothers and newborns, based on two pre-existing scales. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study of psychometric validation of instruments, applied in a roomming-in, in 2016. The instrument has 13 indicators, submitted to the evaluation of a panel of judges for validation. For the psychometric analysis of the instrument, five criteria were adopted: a) internal consistency through Cronbach's alpha (αC); (b) intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC); c) correlation between categorical items, mediating Kendall correlation; d) ceiling and floor effect; e) Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test. Results: after evaluating the judges on the categories, the agreement was satisfactory, being equal to or greater than 80%. The mean total score of the 13 items was 22.5 ± 4.2, with an intermediate level score of 52.9%. For psychometric validation purposes, the instrument presented αC scores of 0.73 points, between minimum items of 0.70 and maximum of 0.74 points. In the correlation of αC by items and the total score, the instrument showed high relationships (r2: 0.84). In the ICC assessment of 0.73 points (CI95%= 0.71-0.75; p<0.001). Conclusion: the questionnaire presented psychometric indicators of acceptable content validity, with statistical evidence of reliability, obtained by satisfactory inter-rateragreement.

Resumo Objetivos: desenvolver e validar um sistema de avaliação de complexidade assistencial adaptado para puérperas e recém-nascidos, com base em duas escalas preexistentes. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo transversal, de validação psicométrica de instrumentos, aplicado em um alojamento conjunto, no período 2016. O instrumento possui 13 indicadores, submetidos à avaliação de um painel de juízes para validação. Para análise psicométrica do instrumento foram adotados cinco critérios: a) consistência interna por meio do Alfa de Cronbach (αC); b) Coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI); c) correlação entre itens categóricos, mediando a correlação de Kendall; d) efeito teto e piso; e) teste de Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin. Resultados: feita a avaliação dos juízes sobre as categorias, a concordância foi satisfatória, sendo igual ou maior a 80%.A média do escore total dos 13 itens foi de 22,5±4,2, com classificação do nível intermediário em 52,9%. Para fins de validação psicométrica, o instrumento apresentou escores de αC de 0,73 pontos, entre itens mínimos de 0,70 e máximo de 0,74 pontos. Na correlação do αC por itens e o escore total, o instrumento demonstrou relações elevadas (r2: 0,84). Na avaliação do CCI de 0,73 pontos (IC95%= 0,71-0,75; p<0,001). Conclusão: o questionário apresentou indicadores psicométricos de validade de conteúdos aceitáveis, com evidência estatística de confiabilidade obtida pela satisfatória concordância interavaliadores.

Effect of physical activity on asthma control in schoolchildren / Efeito da atividade física no controle da asma em escolares

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the effect of levels of physical activity on asthma control in children. Methods A cross-sectional study, including public school students aged 8 to 12 years, of both sexes, with asthma, from a capital and a medium-sized cities in Southern Brazil. At home, the students answered the questionnaire on levels of physical activity and disease control. Results A total of 482 schoolchildren with asthma participated in the study, with mean age of 10.9±2.2 years, and 253 (52%) were girls. Regarding disease control, 50% had controlled asthma, and 67% were considered sedentary. Schoolchildren with controlled asthma were more active than those with uncontrolled asthma (p=0.032). Active schoolchildren were more likely to have asthma controlled (OR=1.5; 95%CI: 1.04-2.25). Conclusion The results demonstrated an association between physical activity levels and asthma control. More active schoolchildren were more likely to have asthma controlled.

RESUMO Objetivo Investigar o efeito dos níveis de atividade física no controle da asma em crianças. Métodos Estudo transversal, incluindo escolares da rede pública, de 8 a 12 anos, de ambos os sexos, com asma, de uma capital e de uma cidade de porte médio da Região Sul do Brasil. Os escolares responderam, em seus domicílios, um questionário de níveis de atividade física e de controle da doença. Resultados Participaram da pesquisa 482 escolares com asma, com média de idade de 10,9±2,2 anos, e 253 (52%) eram meninas. Quanto ao controle da doença, 50% apresentavam asma controlada e 67% foram considerados sedentários. Os escolares com asma controlada foram mais ativos do que os com asma não controlada (p=0,032). Os escolares ativos tiveram mais chance de ter a asma controlada (RC=1,5; IC95%: 1,04-2,25). Conclusão Os resultados demonstraram associação entre os níveis de atividade física e controle da asma. Os escolares mais ativos apresentaram mais chance de ter a asma controlada.

A azitromicina administrada para bronquiolite aguda pode ter um efeito de proteção na sibilância recorrente / Azithromycin administered for acute bronchiolitis may have a protective effect on subsequent wheezing

RESUMO Objetivo Uma proporção significativa de lactentes desenvolve sibilância recorrente após um evento de bronquiolite aguda (BA). Estudos recentes demonstraram proteção para sibilância recorrente e menor morbidade respiratória em lactentes tratados com azitromicina durante uma crise de sibilância. O objetivo do presente estudo foi testar a hipótese de que a administração de azitromicina durante um evento BA reduz sibilos e reinternações hospitalares subsequentes. Métodos Trata-se de uma análise secundária de um estudo randomizado, duplo-cego, controlado por placebo, incluindo dados não publicados de sibilância e hospitalizações durante os seis meses iniciais após a internação por bronquiolite aguda. O estudo foi realizado em um hospital universitário terciário. Os bebês (<12 meses de idade) hospitalizados com BA foram randomizados para receber azitromicina ou placebo, administrados por via oral, por sete dias. As famílias foram contatadas por telefone aos três e seis meses após o evento agudo inicial, e responderam a um questionário padronizado para identificar sibilos recorrentes e reinternações hospitalares. Resultados Cento e quatro pacientes foram incluídos (grupo Azitromicina, n=50; grupo Placebo, n=54). Considerando o total de pacientes contatados com sucesso três meses após a hospitalização (n=70), a taxa de recorrência de sibilância no grupo da azitromicina foi significativamente menor do que no grupo placebo (RR=0,48; CI=0,24-0.98; p=0,038). Conclusões A azitromicina reduziu significativamente o risco de sibilância subsequente entre zero e três meses após a admissão hospitalar por bronquiolite aguda.

ABSTRACT Objective A significant proportion of the infants developed recurrent wheezing after an acute bronchiolitis (AB) event. Recent studies have demonstrated protection for recurrent wheeze and lower respiratory morbidity in infants treated with azithromycin during an acute respiratory wheezing. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that administration of azithromycin during an AB event reduces subsequent wheezing and hospital re-admissions. Methods This is a secondary analysis of a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, including unpublished data of wheezing and hospitalizations during the initial 6 months following admission for acute viral bronchiolitis. The study was performed in a tertiary University hospital. Infants (<12 months of age) hospitalized with AB were randomized to receive either azithromycin or placebo, administered orally, for 7 days. Families were contacted by telephone at 3 and 6 months after the initial acute event and answered to a standardized questionnaire in order to identify recurrent wheezing and hospital readmissions. Results One hundred and four patients were included (Azithromycin group, n= 50; placebo group, n=54). Considering the total of patients contacted 3 months after hospitalization (n=70), the recurrence rate of wheezing in the azithromycin group was significantly lower than in the placebo group (RR = 0.48; CI = 0.24-0.98; p = 0.038). Conclusion Azithromycin significantly reduces the risk of subsequent wheezing between 0 and 3 months after hospital admission due to acute bronchiolitis irrespective of the presence of respiratory syncytial virus.

Validation of the Brazilian version of the Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening Tool questionnaire / Validação da versão brasileira do questionário Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening Tool

Abstract Objective: To validate the Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening tool for use in Brazil. Materials and methods: The Brazilian version of this questionnaire, originally validated and tested in the United States, was developed as follows: (a) translation; (b) back-translation; (c) completion of the final version; (d) pre-testing. The questionnaire was applied prior to polysomnography to children aged 3-9 years from October 2015 to October 2016, and its psychometric properties (i.e., validity and reliability) were evaluated. The accuracy was assessed from comparisons between polysomnographic results and corresponding questionnaire scores. Results: Sixty patients were enrolled, and based on polysomnographic findings, 48% patients had normal apnea-hypopnea index, while the remaining 52% met the criteria for obstructive sleep apnea. Minimum O2 saturation level was significantly lower among obstructive sleep apnea children (p = 0.021). Satisfactory concordance was found between individual apnea-hypopnea index and questionnaire scores. Bland-Altman plot-derived bias was 0.1 for the difference between measures, with 5.34 (95% CI: 4.14-6.55) and −5.19 (95%CI: −6.39 to −3.98) for the upper and lower agreement range. Internal consistency derived from Cronbach's alpha was 0.84 (95%CI: 0.78-0.90). Conclusion: The questionnaire was translated to and validated into Brazilian-Portuguese version, and showed good reliability and concordance with apnea-hypopnea index. This questionnaire offers a reliable screening option for sleep-disordered breathing in children.

Resumo Objetivo: Validar o questionário Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening Tool para o seu uso no Brasil. Materiais e métodos: A versão brasileira desse questionário, originalmente validado e testado nos Estados Unidos, foi desenvolvida a partir das seguintes etapas: a) tradução; b) retrotradução; c) conclusão da versão final; d) pré-teste. O questionário foi aplicado previamente ao início da polissonografia em crianças de 3 a 9 anos incluídas no estudo de outubro de 2015 a outubro de 2016. As propriedades psicométricas avaliadas foram validade e confiabilidade. A acurácia foi avaliada pela comparação entre os resultados da polissonografia com o escore do questionário. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 60 pacientes. Conforme a polissonografia, 48% dos pacientes apresentaram índices de apneia e hipopneia normais e 51% apresentaram resultados alterados. A SpO2 mínima foi significativamente menor (p = 0,021) nas crianças com diagnóstico de síndrome de apneia obstrutiva do sono. O índice de apneia e hipopneia apresentou concordância satisfatória com os resultados do questionário. O viés médio de Bland-Altman foi de 0,1 para a diferença entre as medidas, com um limite superior de 5,34 (IC95%4,14 a 6,55) e um limite inferior de -5,19 (IC95%-6,39 a -3,98). A consistência interna do questionário avaliada pelo α de Cronbach foi de 0,84 (IC95%0,78 a 0,90). Conclusão: O questionário foi traduzido e validado adequadamente para a versão em português brasileiro, apresentando boa confiabilidade e concordância com o índice de apneia e hipopneia. Esse questionário oferece uma opção confiável de triagem de distúrbios respiratórios do sono em crianças.

Asma, rinite e atopia em escolares de duas cidades ambientalmente distintas: metrópole industrializada e região agrícola / Asthma, rhinitis and atopy in schoolchildren from two environmentally distinct cities: industrialized metropolis and agricultural region

OBJETIVO: Analisar as características da asma entre escolares de região metropolitana e região agrícola. MÉTODOS: Os escolares de ambos locais, responderam questionário de diagnóstico epidemiológico da asma e características clínicas da asma, rinite e atopia conforme ISAAC. Também foram avaliados pelo Teste de Controle da Asma e medida de atividade física. RESULTADOS: Entre os 290 e 123 asmáticos avaliados na região metropolitana e região agrícola, respectivamente, a prevalência de asma foi 20,4% e 19,2%. Os asmáticos da região agrícola apresentaram maior frequência de rinite (87% vs. 48,8%, p< 0,001) e atopia (81,4% vs. 63,5%, p=0,005) Não foi observada diferença em medidas de controle da doença (51,9% vs. 47,2%, p=0,378). A combinação asma com rinite ou atopia apresentou risco significativo para o controle da doença nos escolares da região agrícola (OR: 2,300; IC95%:1,867-2,833). CONCLUSÃO: Não houve diferença na frequência de asma e controle da doença entre os escolares estudados. Contudo, os escolares da região agrícola apresentam maiores taxas de rinite e atopia o que interferiu negativamente no controle da asma. Estes achados sugerem que asma em populações com meio ambientes distintos têm características clínicas distintas, que devem ser levadas em conta na definição de estratégias de prevenção e manejo clínico.

AIM: To analyze the characteristics of asthma among students from metropolitan and agricultural regions. METHODS: Students from both locations answered a questionnaire for epidemiological diagnosis of asthma and clinical characteristics of asthma, rhinitis and atopy according to ISAAC. They were also evaluated by the Asthma Control Test and measure of physical activity. RESULTS: Among the 290 and 123 asthmatics evaluated in the metropolitan region and agricultural region, respectively, the prevalence of asthma was 20.4% and 19.2%. Asthmatics in the agricultural region had a higher frequency of rhinitis (87% vs. 48.8%, p<0.001) and atopy (81.4% vs. 63.5%, p=0.005) No difference was observed in disease control measures (51.9% vs. 47.2%, p=0.378). The combination asthma with Rhinitis or atopy presented significant risk for disease control in schoolchildren in the agricultural region (OR: 2,300; 95% CI: 1,867-2,833). CONCLUSION: There was no difference in asthma frequency and disease control among the students studied. However, the students of agricultural region have higher rates of rhinitis and atopy which negatively interfered with asthma control. These findings suggest that Asthma in populations with different environments have different clinical characteristics, which should be taken into account when defining prevention strategies and clinical management.

The impact of asthma in Brazil: a longitudinal analysis of data from a Brazilian national database system / Impacto da asma no Brasil: análise longitudinal de dados extraídos de um banco de dados governamental brasileiro

ABSTRACT Objective: To present official longitudinal data on the impact of asthma in Brazil between 2008 and 2013. Methods: This was a descriptive study of data collected between 2008 and 2013 from an official Brazilian national database, including data on asthma-related number of hospitalizations, mortality, and hospitalization costs. A geographical subanalysis was also performed. Results: In 2013, 2,047 people died from asthma in Brazil (5 deaths/day), with more than 120,000 asthma-related hospitalizations. During the whole study period, the absolute number of asthma-related deaths and of hospitalizations decreased by 10% and 36%, respectively. However, the in-hospital mortality rate increased by approximately 25% in that period. The geographic subanalysis showed that the northern/northeastern and southeastern regions had the highest asthma-related hospitalization and in-hospital mortality rates, respectively. An analysis of the states representative of the regions of Brazil revealed discrepancies between the numbers of asthma-related hospitalizations and asthma-related in-hospital mortality rates. During the study period, the cost of asthma-related hospitalizations to the public health care system was US$ 170 million. Conclusions: Although the numbers of asthma-related deaths and hospital admissions in Brazil have been decreasing since 2009, the absolute numbers are still high, resulting in elevated direct and indirect costs for the society. This shows the relevance of the burden of asthma in middle-income countries.

RESUMO Objetivo: Apresentar dados longitudinais oficiais sobre o impacto da asma no Brasil entre 2008 e 2013. Métodos: Estudo descritivo de dados extraídos de um banco de dados do governo brasileiro entre 2008 e 2013, no qual foram analisados as hospitalizações e óbitos por asma, bem como o custo das hospitalizações. Foi também realizada uma subanálise geográfica. Resultados: Em 2013, 2.047 pessoas morreram de asma no Brasil (5 óbitos/dia), com mais de 120.000 hospitalizações por asma. Durante o período de estudo, o número absoluto de óbitos e hospitalizações por asma diminuiu 10% e 36%, respectivamente. No entanto, a taxa de mortalidade hospitalar aumentou aproximadamente 25%. A subanálise geográfica mostrou que as regiões Norte/Nordeste e Sudeste apresentaram as maiores taxas de hospitalização e mortalidade hospitalar por asma, respectivamente. A análise dos estados representativos de cada região mostrou discrepâncias entre as hospitalizações por asma e as taxas de mortalidade hospitalar por asma. Durante o período de estudo, as hospitalizações por asma custaram US$ 170 milhões ao sistema público de saúde. Conclusões: Embora os óbitos e hospitalizações por asma no Brasil estejam diminuindo desde 2009, os números absolutos ainda são altos, com elevados custos diretos e indiretos para a sociedade, o que mostra a relevância do impacto da asma em países de renda média.

Viral bronchiolitis in young infants: new perspectives for management and treatment / Bronquiolite viral em neonatos jovens: novas perspectivas para manejo e tratamento

Abstract Objective: The aim of this review was to address advances in management and treatment of acute viral bronchiolitis in infants. Sources: A systematic review search was made including all articles published in English between 2010 and 2017, and available in the electronic databases PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and specialized register of the Acute Respiratory Infections Group (Cochrane review group). The following MESH terms in English were included, using different Boolean operators for the search strategy: "bronchiolitis, viral," "diagnosis," "epidemiology," "etiology," "therapy," "virology," "prevention and control," "respiratory syncytial virus, human." Additional filters were used. Summary of findings: Few effective interventions are recommended for the management of RSV bronchiolitis in young infants. The main goal is to ensure an adequate oxygen supplementation and fluid balance whenever deemed necessary. Hypertonic saline nebulization is helpful only for hospitalized infants. Numerous antiviral drugs and specific vaccines for RSV are under evaluation and foretell advances in disease management in the near future. Conclusion: A number of promising new technologies are advancing in the field. Until new interventions became feasible, early detection and modification of preventable risk factors is essential to improve outcomes.

Resumo Objetivo: Abordar avanços no manejo e no tratamento de bronquiolite viral aguda em neonatos. Fontes: Uma pesquisa de análise sistemática foi feita e incluiu todos os artigos publicados em inglês entre 2010 e 2017 e disponíveis nas bases de dados eletrônicas PubMed, no Registro Central de Ensaios Controlados (Central) da Cochrane e no registro especializado do Grupo de Infecções Respiratórias Agudas (grupo de revisão Cochrane). Os seguintes termos MESH em inglês foram incluídos na abordagem com diferentes operadores booleanos para a estratégia de pesquisa: "bronquiolite, viral", "diagnóstico", "epidemiologia", "etiologia", "terapia", "virologia", "prevenção e controle", "vírus sincicial respiratório, humano". Foram usados filtros adicionais. Resumo dos achados: Poucas intervenções efetivas são recomendadas para o manejo da bronquiolite por VSR em neonatos jovens. O principal objetivo é garantir uma suplementação de oxigênio adequada e equilíbrio de fluidos sempre que considerado necessário. A nebulização de solução salina hipertônica ajuda apenas em casos de neonatos hospitalizados. Vários medicamentos antivirais e vacinas específicas contra VSR estão em fase de avaliação e predizem avanços no manejo da doença no futuro próximo. Conclusão: Várias novas tecnologias promissoras avançam no campo. Até que as novas intervenções se tornem viáveis, a detecção precoce e a modificação de fatores de risco de prevenção são fundamentais para melhorar os resultados.

Growth, lung function, and physical activity in schoolchildren who were very-low-birth-weight preterm infants / Crescimento, função pulmonar e atividade física em escolares nascidos prematuros e com muito baixo peso

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare somatic growth, lung function, and level of physical activity in schoolchildren who had been very-low-birth-weight preterm infants (VLBWPIs) or normal-birth-weight full-term infants. Methods: We recruited two groups of schoolchildren between 8 and 11 years of age residing in the study catchment area: those who had been VLBWPIs (birth weight < 1,500 g); and those who had been normal-birth-weight full-term infants (controls, birth weight ≥ 2,500 g). Anthropometric and spirometric data were collected from the schoolchildren, who also completed a questionnaire regarding their physical activity. In addition, data regarding the perinatal and neonatal period were collected from the medical records of the VLBWPIs. Results: Of the 93 schoolchildren screened, 48 and 45 were in the VLBWPI and control groups, respectively. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding anthropometric characteristics, nutritional status, or pulmonary function. No associations were found between perinatal/neonatal variables and lung function parameters in the VLBWPI group. Although the difference was not significant, the level of physical activity was slightly higher in the VLBWPI group than in the control group. Conclusions: Among the schoolchildren evaluated here, neither growth nor lung function appear to have been affected by prematurity birth weight, or level of physical activity.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar o crescimento somático, a função pulmonar e o nível de atividade física entre escolares nascidos prematuros com muito baixo peso e escolares nascidos a termo e com peso adequado. Métodos: Foram recrutados escolares com idade de 8 a 11 anos residentes na mesma área de abrangência do estudo: prematuros e com peso < 1.500 g e controles (nascidos a termo e com peso ≥ 2.500 g). Foram obtidas medidas antropométricas e espirométricas e aplicado um questionário sobre a atividade física. Além disso, foram coletadas informações do período perinatal/neonatal dos recém-nascidos com muito baixo peso (RNMBP) de seus prontuários médicos. Resultados: Dos 93 escolares avaliados, 48 crianças no grupo RNMBP e 45 no grupo controle. Não houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos em relação às características antropométricas e nutricionais ou aos parâmetros de função pulmonar. Não foram encontradas associações entre as variáveis perinatais/neonatais e parâmetros da função pulmonar dos escolares no grupo RNMBP. Embora sem diferença significativa em relação aos níveis de atividade física, o grupo RNMBP apresentou uma tendência de ser mais ativo que o grupo controle. Conclusões: Nos escolares aqui estudados o crescimento e a função pulmonar parecem não ser afetados por prematuridade, peso ao nascimento ou nível de atividade física.

Lack of association between viral load and severity of acute bronchiolitis in infants / Falta de associação entre carga viral e gravidade da bronquiolite aguda em lactentes

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the correlation between respiratory syncytial viral load and length of hospitalization in infants with acute wheezing episodes. Methods: This was a two-year, cross-sectional study of infants ≤ 12 months of age with bronchiolitis at the time of admission to a tertiary hospital. For the identification of respiratory viruses, nasopharyngeal secretions were collected. Samples were analyzed (throughout the study period) by direct immunofluorescence and (in the second year of the study) by quantitative real-time PCR. We screened for three human viruses: rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and metapneumovirus. Results: Of 110 samples evaluated by direct immunofluorescence, 56 (50.9%) were positive for a single virus, and 16 (14.5%) were positive for two or more viruses. Among those 72 samples, the most prevalent virus was respiratory syncytial virus, followed by influenza. Of 56 samples evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR, 24 (42.8%) were positive for a single virus, and 1 (1.7%) was positive for two viruses. Among those 25 samples, the most prevalent virus was again respiratory syncytial virus, followed by human rhinovirus. Coinfection did not influence the length of the hospital stay or other outcome s. In addition, there was no association between respiratory syncytial virus load and the length of hospitalization. Conclusions: Neither coinfection nor respiratory syncytial viral load appears to influence the outcomes of acute bronchiolitis in infants.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a correlação entre a carga viral do vírus sincicial respiratório e o tempo de internação hospitalar em lactentes com episódios de sibilância aguda. Métodos: Este foi um estudo transversal de dois anos envolvendo lactentes de até 12 meses de idade com bronquiolite no momento da internação em um hospital terciário. Para a identificação dos vírus respiratórios foram coletadas secreções nasofaríngeas. As amostras foram analisadas (por todo o período do estudo) por imunofluorescência direta e (no segundo ano do estudo) por PCR quantitativa em tempo real para três vírus humanos (rinovírus, vírus sincicial respiratório e metapneumovírus). Resultados: Das 110 amostras avaliadas por imunofluorescência direta, 56 (50,9%) foram positivas para um único vírus, e 16 (14,5%) foram positivas para dois ou mais vírus. Nessas 72 amostras, o vírus mais prevalente foi o vírus sincicial respiratório, seguido por influenza. Das 56 amostras avaliadas por PCR quantitativa em tempo real, 24 (42,8%) foram positivas para um único vírus, e 1 (1,7%) foi positiva para dois vírus. Nessas 25 amostras, o vírus mais prevalente foi o vírus sincicial respiratório, seguido por rinovírus humano. A coinfecção não influenciou o tempo de internação ou outros desfechos. Além disso, não houve associação entre a carga viral de vírus sincicial respiratório e o tempo de internação. Conclusões: A coinfecção e a carga viral do vírus sincicial respiratório não parecem influenciar os desfechos em lactentes com bronquiolite aguda.

Evaluating bronchodilator response in pediatric patients with post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans: use of different criteria for identifying airway reversibility / Avaliação da resposta ao broncodilatador em pacientes pediátricos com bronquiolite obliterante pós-infecciosa: uso de diferentes critérios de identificação de reversibilidade das vias aéreas

ABSTRACT Objective: Post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans (PIBO) is a clinical entity that has been classified as constrictive, fixed obstruction of the lumen by fibrotic tissue. However, recent studies using impulse oscillometry have reported bronchodilator responses in PIBO patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate bronchodilator responses in pediatric PIBO patients, comparing different criteria to define the response. Methods: We evaluated pediatric patients diagnosed with PIBO and treated at one of two pediatric pulmonology outpatient clinics in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. Spirometric parameters were measured in accordance with international recommendations. Results: We included a total of 72 pediatric PIBO patients. The mean pre- and post-bronchodilator values were clearly lower than the reference values for all parameters, especially FEF25-75%. There were post-bronchodilator improvements. When measured as mean percent increases, FEV1 and FEF25-75%, improved by 11% and 20%, respectively. However, when the absolute values were calculated, the mean FEV1 and FEF25-75% both increased by only 0.1 L. We found that age at viral aggression, a family history of asthma, and allergy had no significant effects on bronchodilator responses. Conclusions: Pediatric patients with PIBO have peripheral airway obstruction that is responsive to treatment but is not completely reversible with a bronchodilator. The concept of PIBO as fixed, irreversible obstruction does not seem to apply to this population. Our data suggest that airway obstruction is variable in PIBO patients, a finding that could have major clinical implications.

RESUMO Objetivo: A bronquiolite obliterante pós-infecciosa (BOPI) é uma entidade clínica que tem sido classificada como obstrução fixa e constritiva do lúmen por tecido fibrótico. Entretanto, estudos recentes utilizando oscilometria de impulso relataram resposta ao broncodilatador em pacientes com BOPI. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a resposta broncodilatadora em pacientes pediátricos com BOPI, comparando critérios diferentes para a definição da resposta. Métodos: Foram avaliados pacientes pediátricos com diagnóstico de BOPI tratados em um de dois ambulatórios de pneumologia pediátrica na cidade de Porto Alegre (RS). Parâmetros espirométricos foram medidos de acordo com recomendações internacionais. Resultados: Foram incluídos 72 pacientes pediátricos com BOPI no estudo. As médias dos valores pré- e pós-broncodilatador foram claramente inferiores aos valores de referência para todos os parâmetros, especialmente FEF25-75%. Houve uma melhora pós-broncodilatador. Quando medidos como aumentos percentuais médios, VEF1 e FEF25-75% melhoraram em 11% e 20%, respectivamente. Entretanto, quando os valores absolutos foram calculados, as médias de VEF1 e FEF25-75% aumentaram somente em 0,1 l. Verificamos que a idade da agressão viral, história familiar de asma e alergia não tiveram efeitos significativos na resposta ao broncodilatador. Conclusões: Pacientes pediátricos com BOPI têm uma obstrução das vias aéreas periféricas que responde ao tratamento, mas não uma reversão completa com o broncodilatador. O conceito de BOPI como obstrução fixa e irreversível parece não se aplicar a essa população. Nossos dados sugerem que a obstrução de vias aéreas em pacientes com BOPI é variável, e esse achado pode ter importantes implicações clínicas.

Uso de macrolídeos em doenças pulmonares: controvérsias da literatura recente / Use of macrolides in lung diseases: recent literature controversies

Resumo Objetivo: Revisar os mecanismos de ação de macrolídeos em doenças respiratórias pediátricas e as suas indicações clínicas. Fonte de dados: Revisão na base de dados Pubmed, compreendendo os termos em inglês referentes ao tema básico. Síntese dos dados: O seu espectro de ação estende-se desde a produção de mediadores inflamatórios até o controle da hipersecreção de muco e a modulação de mecanismos de defesa do hospedeiro. O potencial benefício dos antibióticos macrolídeos foi estudado em doenças pulmonares como a fibrose cística, as bronquiectasias, a asma, a bronquiolite aguda e as bronquiectasias não ligadas à fibrose cística. Diversos estudos avaliaram os benefícios dos macrolídeos na asma resistente a terapia, porém os resultados são controversos e as indicações devem ser limitadas a fenótipos específicos. Na bronquiolite viral não há benefícios consistentes nos quadros agudos, embora dados recentes mostrem um efeito na prevenção de sibilância recorrente. Em pacientes com fibrose cística os resultados também são contraditórios, mas o consenso é de que há um pequeno benefício clínico, especialmente para os pacientes infectados por P. aeruginosa. Também não foi observada ação positiva dos macrolídeos em pacientes com bronquiolite obliterante pós-infecciosa. Crianças com bronquiectasias não relacionadas à fibrose cística parecem ter claros benefícios em relação ao uso de macrolídeos, os quais mostraram vantagens clínicas, de proteção ao parênquima e na função pulmonar. Conclusões: O uso em longo prazo de macrolídeos deve ser limitado a situações altamente selecionadas, especialmente em pacientes com bronquiectasias. Avaliação cuidadosa dos benefícios e potenciais danos são ferramentas para indicação em grupos específicos.

Abstract Objective: To review the mechanisms of action of macrolides in pediatric respiratory diseases and their clinical indications. Sources: Review in the PubMed database, comprising the following terms in English: “macrolide and asthma”; “macrolide and cystic fibrosis”; “macrolide bronchiolitis and viral acute”; “macrolide and bronchiolitis obliterans”; and “macrolide and non-CF bronchiectasis”. Summary of the findings: The spectrum of action of macrolides includes production of inflammatory mediators, control of mucus hypersecretion, and modulation of host-defense mechanisms. The potential benefit of macrolide antibiotics has been studied in a variety of lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis (CF), bronchiectasis, asthma, acute bronchiolitis, and non-CF bronchiectasis. Several studies have evaluated the benefits of macrolides in asthma refractory to therapy, but the results are controversial and indications should be limited to specific phenotypes. In viral bronchiolitis, there is no consistent benefit in acute conditions, although recent data have shown an effect in recurrent wheezing prevention. In patients with CF results are also contradictory, but the consensus states there is a small clinical benefit, especially for patients infected with P. aeruginosa. There was also no positive action of macrolides in patients with post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans. Children with non-CF bronchiectasis seem to have clear benefits regarding the use of macrolides, which showed clinical advantages in parenchyma protection and lung function. Conclusions: The long-term use of macrolides should be limited to highly selected situations, especially in patients with bronchiectasis. Careful evaluation of the benefits and potential damage are tools for their indication in specific groups.

Clinical characteristics of children and adolescents with severe therapy-resistant asthma in Brazil / Características clínicas de crianças e adolescentes brasileiros com asma grave resistente a terapia

AbstractObjective: To describe the clinical characteristics, lung function, radiological findings, and the inflammatory cell profile in induced sputum in children and adolescents with severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA) treated at a referral center in southern Brazil.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed children and adolescents (3-18 years of age) with uncontrolled STRA treated with high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting β2 agonists. We prospectively collected data on disease control, lung function, skin test reactivity to allergens, the inflammatory cell profile in induced sputum, chest CT findings, and esophageal pH monitoring results.Results: We analyzed 21 patients (mean age, 9.2 ± 2.98 years). Of those, 18 (86%) were atopic. Most had uncontrolled asthma and near-normal baseline lung function. In 4 and 7, induced sputum was found to be eosinophilic and neutrophilic, respectively; the inflammatory cell profile in induced sputum having changed in 67% of those in whom induced sputum analysis was repeated. Of the 8 patients receiving treatment with omalizumab (an anti-IgE antibody), 7 (87.5%) showed significant improvement in quality of life, as well as significant reductions in the numbers of exacerbations and hospitalizations.Conclusions: Children with STRA present with near-normal lung function and a variable airway inflammatory pattern during clinical follow-up, showing a significant clinical response to omalizumab. In children, STRA differs from that seen in adults, further studies being required in order to gain a better understanding of the disease mechanisms.

ResumoObjetivo: Descrever as principais características clínicas, a função pulmonar, as características radiológicas e o perfil inflamatório do escarro induzido de crianças e adolescentes com asma grave resistente a terapia (AGRT) tratados em um centro de referência do sul do Brasil.Métodos: Foram analisadas retrospectivamente crianças e adolescentes de 3-18 anos com diagnóstico de AGRT não controlada acompanhados durante pelo menos 6 meses e tratados com doses elevadas de corticoide inalatório associado a um β2-agonista de longa duração. Foram coletados prospectivamente dados relativos ao controle da doença, função pulmonar, teste cutâneo para alérgenos, perfil inflamatório do escarro induzido, TC de tórax e pHmetria esofágica.Resultados: Foram analisados 21 pacientes (média de idade: 9,2 ± 2,98 anos). Dos 21, 18 (86%) eram atópicos. A maioria apresentava asma não controlada e função pulmonar basal próxima do normal. Em 4 e 7 pacientes, o escarro induzido revelou-se eosinofílico e neutrofílico, respectivamente, e 67% dos pacientes que repetiram o exame apresentaram mudança no perfil inflamatório. Dos 8 pacientes que receberam omalizumabe (um anticorpo anti-IgE), 7 (87,5%) apresentaram melhora importante da qualidade de vida, com redução importante das exacerbações e hospitalizações.Conclusões: Crianças com AGRT apresentam função pulmonar próxima do normal e padrão inflamatório das vias aéreas variável durante o seguimento clínico, com importante resposta clínica ao omalizumabe. A AGRT em crianças difere da AGRT em adultos, e são necessários mais estudos para esclarecer os mecanismos da doença.