Pediatric Respiratory Disorders

What is the primary mechanism of bronchospasm in pediatric asthma?

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of croup?

What is the most common cause of epiglottitis in pediatric patients?

Which of the following is a common complication of pneumonia in pediatric patients?

What is the primary goal of management in pediatric patients with bronchiolitis?

What is the main characteristic of airway remodeling in asthma?

Which type of immune response is overactive in asthma?

What is the role of eosinophils in asthma pathophysiology?

What is the primary genetic component of asthma?

What is the effect of air pollution on asthma symptoms?

What is the role of mast cells in asthma?

What is the effect of respiratory viruses on asthma?

What is the characteristic feature of airway inflammation in asthma?

What is the role of T-cells in asthma pathophysiology?

What is the prevalence of asthma in children worldwide?

Definition and Prevalence of Asthma in Children

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent episodes of wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
It affects approximately 6-8% of children worldwide.

Pathophysiology of Asthma

Chronic inflammation of the airways leads to airway hyperresponsiveness and airflow obstruction.
Repeated episodes of inflammation cause airway remodeling, characterized by thickening of the airway wall, fibrosis, and hyperplasia of airway smooth muscle.
Asthma is associated with an imbalance in the immune response, with an overactive Th2 response and underactive Th1 response.

Key Players in Asthma Pathophysiology

Eosinophils produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and granule proteins, contributing to airway inflammation.
Mast cells release histamine and other mediators, involved in the early stages of allergic responses.
Th2 cells promote allergic inflammation, while Th1 cells suppress allergic responses.

Environmental Triggers of Asthma

Common allergens include dust mites, cockroaches, pollen, and pet dander.
Respiratory viruses, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), can trigger asthma exacerbations.
Exposure to air pollution, including ozone and particulate matter, can worsen asthma symptoms.

Genetic Factors in Asthma

Asthma has a strong genetic component, with multiple genetic variants associated with increased risk.
Genetic predisposition can interact with environmental factors to increase the risk of developing asthma.

In young children, asthma is often associated with viral infections and may resolve spontaneously.
In older children, asthma is more likely to be associated with allergic sensitization and airway remodeling.

This quiz covers the pathophysiology and management of common pediatric respiratory disorders, including asthma, bronchiolitis, croup, epiglottitis, and pneumonia.