Growth hormone retesting during puberty: a cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To report the frequency and characteristics of growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD) in adolescents who had normalized GH secretion at mid-puberty and to identify possible factors predictive for GH sufficiency at puberty.

DESIGN

Clinical analysis of children affected by GHD at five time points: diagnosis; first year of therapy; intermediate stage of puberty; retesting and end of growth phase.

METHODS

The study population was 80 children with idiopathic GHD and treated with GH for at least 2 years. Treatment was discontinued at the intermediate stage of puberty. Retesting with an arginine test was performed 12 weeks later. If GH peak at retesting was ≥8 μg/L, the therapy was definitively discontinued, otherwise it was restarted and continued until achievement of near-final height.

RESULTS

GH therapy was discontinued in 44 children (55%), and restarted in 36 (45%). No evidence of differences in definitive height and in the delta height between the genetic target and the definitive height was found between the two groups. The only predictive factor for GHD at mid-puberty was the insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) level at 1 year of GH treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

GH secretion should be retested at mid-puberty. Retesting at puberty may reduce potential side effects and minimize costs, without impairing growth potential and final height.

Can inhaled foreign body mimic asthma in an adolescent?

A 14 year old male was diagnosed with asthma but didn't improve with appropriate inhalation therapy. Rigid bronchoscopy revealed a food fragment, almost completely occluding the lower-left bronchus lumen. Based on the reported history, it had been likely there for several years.

Italian pediatric respiratory society recommendations on pediatric pulmonary function testing during COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Effective prevention and control strategies are mandatory to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Main text

The Italian Pediatric Respiratory Society promotes a series of new recommendations that should be followed in pulmonary function testing laboratories during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Pulmonary function testing should be performed in children with chronic lung disease only if it is needed to guide management and limited to the necessary tests, namely spirometry. When performed, strict infection control measures should be followed due to the potential risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2.

Beyond the growth delay in children with sleep-related breathing disorders: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The availability of high-quality studies on the association between sleep-disordered breathing in children and delayed growth associated with the hormonal profile recorded before surgery and at follow-up is limited.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Medline PubMed, Scopus and WebOfScience databases were searched for relevant publications published between January 2008 to January 2020 and a total of 261 potentially eligible studies were identified.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Following review 19 papers were eligible for inclusion: seven reported a significant postsurgical increase in growth regardless of initial weight status, type of surgery, type of study design, and length of follow-up period. The only high-quality study was a randomized controlled trial that found an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome relapse in overweight children. Twelve studies reported the significant increase in growth parameters showing that IGF-1, IGFBP-3, and ghrelin may boost growth after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The current systematic review demonstrates a scarcity of high-quality studies on growth delay in children with sleep-disordered breathing. Significant catch-up growth after surgery in the short term and changes in IGF-1, IGFBP-3, ghrelin, and leptin levels has been reported in most published studies.

Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FENO) in the management of asthma: a position paper of the Italian Respiratory Society (SIP/IRS) and Italian Society of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology (SIAAIC)

Asthma prevalence in Italy is on the rise and is estimated to be over 6% of the general population. The diagnosis of asthma can be challenging and elusive, especially in children and the last two decades has brought evidences that asthma is not a single disease but consists of various phenotypes. Symptoms can be underestimated by the patient or underreported to the clinician and physical signs can be scanty. Usual objective measures, like spirometry, are necessary but sometimes not significant. Despite proper treatment, asthma can be a very severe condition (even leading to death), however new drugs have recently become available which can be very effective in its control. Since asthma is currently thought to be caused by inflammation, a direct measure of the latter can be of paramount importance. For this purpose, the measurement of Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FE_NO) has been used since the early years of the current century as a non-invasive, easy-to-assess tool useful for diagnosing and managing asthma. This SIP-IRS/SIAAIC Position Paper is a narrative review which summarizes the evidence behind the usefulness of FE_NO in the diagnosis, management and phenotypization of asthma.

Severe asthma: When to resort to biological agents

Asthmatic children usually reach good control of symptoms with a low-medium dose of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), but approximately 5% has severe asthma. In this group of patients, when the diagnosis of severe asthma is confirmed, biologic agents have to be considered when there is no control of the symptoms despite conventional treatment with controllers according to guidelines. At present, the only biologic agent available in clinical practice for severe asthma treatment in children (6-18 years) is omalizumab. Mepolizumab has been recently approved by EMA for pediatric use. Reslizumab is a monoclonal antibody anti-IL-5 that has been approved for severe eosinophilic asthma treatment only in patients >12 years. Because of their action on specific molecular targets of the asthma pathophysiology, biologic agents are very promising therapeutic options for severe asthmatic patients based on individual endotypes.

A novel de novo partial xq duplication in a girl with short stature, nonverbal learning disability and diminished ovarian reserve - effect of growth hormone treatment and fertility preservation strategies: a case report and up-to-date review

Background

Xq duplication is a rare condition with a very variable phenotype, which could mimic other genetic syndromes involving the long arm of chromosome X. Sometimes short stature and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) may be present. Treatments with rGH (Recombinant growth Hormon) or with fertility preservation strategies have not been previously described.

Case presentation

We present the case of a female with a novel de novo Xq partial duplication (karyotype: 46,Xder(X)(qter→q21.31::pter→qter) confirmed by array-CGH analysis. She presented with short stature, Nonverbal Learning Disability, developmental delay during childhood, severe scoliosis, spontaneous onset of menarche and irregular menstrual cycles. AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) allowed detection of a preserved but severely diminished ovarian reserve with a POI (Premature Ovarian insufficiency) onset risk. She was effectively subjected to fertility preservation strategies and rGH therapy. We also reviewed other published cases with Xq duplication, reporting the main clinics characteristics and any adopted treatment.

Conclusions

rGH treatment and cryopreservation in a multidisciplinary approach are good therapeutic strategies for Xq duplication syndrome with short stature and premature ovarian failure.

Popularity of sleep disordered breathing in childhood: an analysis of worldwide search using Google Trends

BACKGROUND

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a general term encompassing a variety of breathing problems occurring during the sleep and characterized by frequently reported signs such as sleep apneas and snoring. Published studies on this topic are increasing over time, as demonstrated by the number of papers available on on-line databases.

METHODS

Google Trends is a freely accessible and reliable online portal, which allows to explore internet search data. Due to the focus on of childhood SDB in published research, and because of its impact on health and wellbeing, this original study aims at investigating the worldwide popularity of most common sleep signs (apnea and snoring) from January 1st, 2004 to present time.

RESULTS

The trend of interest for 'sleep', 'sleep apneas' and 'snoring' limited to pediatric age was lower than its overall popularity in the general population, thus reflecting a lower interest of these symptoms in children than in adults. Unlike an increasing trend of ongoing research, the popularity of pediatric sleep apnea and snoring was found to be relatively low around the world, and remained fairly stable over time.

CONCLUSIONS

This is a matter for concern, since the low popularity of SDB in children is counterbalanced by a need for reinforcing educational programs aimed at increasing widespread awareness, diagnosis and management of this condition.

Bone Marrow Foot Oedema in Adolescents: The Role of Vitamin D

Background

Bone marrow oedema (BMO) in children/adolescents is a rare clinical condition without an etiologic cause. It is associated with typical increased signal intensity on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI) and an increase in bone turnover in which vitamin D plays a pivotal role. No treatment guidelines for these young patients are to date available.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study in a pediatric setting of 13 patients with diagnosis of primary BMO of the foot on the basis of clinical and radiological findings. Data collection included sex, age, patient history, symptoms at presentation, clinical examination, laboratory bone turnover markers, vitamin D levels, MRI, treatment, and outcome.

Results

Vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency was found in 76.9% of cases. All patients were treated with adequate vitamin D daily intake, a short course of analgesic therapy, physical therapy, avoiding detrimental feet and ankle immobilization. All fully recovered in 3-month lag period.

Conclusions

Our data highlight that environmental factors, such as underestimated articular or bone microtraumatisms, as well as joint hyper mobility, in a bone turnover milieu of vitamin D deficiency could be the cause of this clinical conditions. Adequate vitamin D supplementation, associated with physical and analgesic therapy, is crucial in the management of BMO.

Sweet at birth, bitter in growth

Complementary feeding plays a primary role in the life of an infant, as long as the correct assumption of nutrients in terms of timing and quality is the key to a healthy growth. Since infants are totally dependent on their parents during complementary feeding, educational programmes and intervention plans are needed to educate parents and caregivers. As to this, children's sugar consumption throughout their life has been specifically investigated and several critical points have been detected, demonstrating how sugar intake should not be higher than necessary in children and should not include sweetened beverages in daily nutrition. The association between children's diet and the subsequent consequences in their later life has been extensively studied, pointing out how countries should invest in policies that aim at decreasing sugar intake and encouraging parents, as well as children, to a healthier behaviour. The aim of this article is to look at the problem from three different perspectives, the parents' one, the scientific one, and the paediatrician one, in order to offer a new insight on the future of complementary feeding.

45,X/46,X,i(Yp): Importance of Assessment and Support during Puberty and Adolescence

The Y-chromosome genes are primarily involved in sex determination, stature control, spermatogenesis, and fertility. Among structural rearrangements of the Y chromosome, the isochromosome of Yp, i(Yp), appears to be the most uncommon. We describe a detailed evolution of puberty in a boy with 45,X/46,X,i(Yp). Array CGH found 2 cell lines, one with i(Yp) and the other with monosomy X. Genetic analysis of currently known genes involved in Kallmann syndrome/normosomic central hypogonadotropic hypogonadism showed no abnormality. The patient presented with a pubertal course suggestive of a delayed puberty with gynecomastia, reduced growth rate, and infertility that need testosterone treatment to induce the appearance of the secondary sex characteristics. This patient shows the potential effects of i(Yp) and emphasizes the importance of appropriate management of puberty in people with 45,X/46,X,i(Yp). Early hormone treatment, concerns regarding fertility, emotional support, and a successful transition to adult care may help improve the physical and psychosocial well-being of affected patients.

Nasal cytology in children with primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Rhinitis is an acute or chronic inflammatory condition due to several causes (i.e. infections, allergens). There are controversial results that point out the role of nasal inflammation in primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS).

METHODS

The aim of the present investigation is to study the nasal cytology in 58 children aged from 1 to 15 affected by sleep disordered breathing.

RESULTS

Inflammation of the nasal mucous was found in 88% of children. The most frequent problems were infectious rhinitis (36%), followed by non-allergic rhinitis (28%) and allergic rhinitis (21%). Infectious rhinitis was found in 31% of children with primary snoring and 41% with OSAS. Allergic rhinitis was found in 35% of children with primary snoring, and 6% with OSAS. Non-allergic rhinitis was found in 19% of children with primary snoring, and 34% with OSAS. Bacteria was found in 59% of children with OSAS and 46% in children with primary snoring.

CONCLUSION

the most prevalent forms of rhinitis in primary snoring were the allergic rhinitis, and in OSAS group were the non-allergic rhinitis. Bacteria were equally distributed in primary snoring and OSAS children. The nasal cytology provided interesting information that can be used to plan possible treatment strategies.

The influence of type of delivery, skin-to-skin contact and maternal nationality on breastfeeding rates at hospital discharge in a baby-friendly hospital in Italy

The aim of this epidemiological study is to evaluate how type of delivery, skin-to-skin contact and maternal nationality influence breastfeeding practices of newborns at discharge in a large population of babies born in the Baby-Friendly Hospital of San Bonifacio, Verona, Italy. Data were collected for all healthy newborns consecutively born over a period of three years, regarding type of delivery, feeding at hospital discharge, skin-to-skin procedure, and for a smaller group maternal nationality was recorded as well. The rate of exclusive breastfeeding in a group of 6017 newborns was 82.1%, higher among babies born by vaginal delivery than in those born by cesarean section (84.9% vs 65%; P<0.001). It was higher in those who had skin-to-skin contact than in those who did not, in both vaginal delivery (85.3% vs 69.2%; P<0.001) and cesarean section (67.7% vs 55.1%; P=0.009). Also, it was found to be higher in babies born to immigrant mothers than in those born to Italian mothers (89.9% vs 79.5%). Vaginal delivery, skin-to-skin contact and maternal foreign nationality have a positive association with breastfeeding at hospital discharge.

Pearls and pitfalls of bathing in atopic dermatitis

The latest guidelines of the American Academy of Dermatology suggest bathing as an advantageous nonpharmacologic intervention for regular skin care of patients with atopic dermatitis. Regular bathing with water can hydrate the skin, remove scale, crust, irritants, and allergens, enhance penetration of topical agents, and potentially reduce bacterial colonization. However, it is still unclear whether the addition of oils, emollients, and other additives to bath water may produce further benefits for the management of atopic dermatitis. This article will review current pearls and pitfalls of adding salts and nonirritating, nonsensitizing substances to water baths for the long-term maintenance treatment of atopic dermatitis in children.

Consensus communication strategies to improve doctor-patient relationship in paediatric severe asthma

Background

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that is very common among youth worldwide. The burden of this illness is very high not only considering financial costs but also on emotional and social functioning. Guidelines and many researches recommend to develop a good communication between physicians and children/caregiver and their parents. Nevertheless, a previous Italian project showed some criticalities in paediatric severe asthma management. The consensus gathered together experts in paediatric asthma management, experts in narrative medicine and patient associations with the aim of identify simple recommendation to improve communication strategies.

Methods

Participants to the consensus received the results of the project and a selection of narratives two weeks before the meeting. The meeting was structured in plenary session and in three working groups discussing respectively about communication strategies with children, adolescents and parents. The task of each working group was to identify the most effective (DO) and least effective practices (DON’ T) for 5 phases of the visit: welcome, comprehension of the context, emotions management, duration and end of the visit and endurance of the relationship.

Results

Participants agreed that good relationships translate into positive outcomes and reached consensus on communication strategies to implement in the different phase of relationships.

Conclusions

The future challenges identified by the participants are the dissemination of this Consensus document and the implementation of effective communication strategies to improve the management of pediatric asthma.

Massive thymic hyperplasia in a 15-month-old boy: Case report and literature review

A surgical approach is the choice in young infants with MTH, who are furthest from the time of physiological involution of the thymus, and when the thymus achieves the largest relative size, a surgical approach is the choice. Steroid therapy has been shown to be ineffective (4, 9, 16, 18-20). No surgical complications have been reported, and the outcome is excellent. Recurrence has been seen in only one case.

Vitamin C: should daily administration keep the paediatrician away?

Vitamin C is an organic compound that is almost ubiquitous in the daily diet of individuals. There are clear indications of supplementation when secondary deficiency is detected related with reduced dietary intake or reduced absorption. On the other hand, indications for supplementation concerning an increased need are controversial. Several authors have studied the role of vitamin C as an adjuvant in the treatment of diseases that may affect children and adolescents. These diseases affect all organs and systems: specifically, vitamin C supplementation could play a role in respiratory, neurological, psychiatric, oncohematological, nephrological, ophthalmological and nutritional disorders. In paediatric age, a significant benefit of vitamin C supplementation has been observed in depressive pathology, iron-deficiency anaemia and chronic renal failure related to haemodialysis. No evidence was found with vitamin C supplementation on mortality, cognitive performance, quality of life, eye diseases, infections, cardiovascular diseases and tumours. This evidence may be related to the fact that in developed countries, vitamin C is almost ubiquitous in the daily diet of each individual. In conclusion, studies on non-industrialised populations in which there could be a real benefit from such supplementation, have yet to be conducted.

Sleep-disordered breathing in paediatric setting: existing and upcoming of the genetic disorders

Childhood obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by anatomical and functional upper airway abnormalities as pathophysiological determinants, and clinical symptoms are frequently clear. OSAS is widely described in rare genetic disorders, such as achondroplasia, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Pierre Robin sequence, and mucopolysaccharidosis. Craniofacial and upper airway involvement is frequently morbid conditions. In children with genetic diseases, the clinical symptoms of OSAS are often slight or absent, and related morbidities are usually more severe and can be observed at any age. The present review is aimed to updating the discoveries regarding OSAS on Achondroplasia, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Pierre Robin sequence, Sickle cell disease, or encountered in our clinical practice (Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, Noonan syndrome). Two additional groups of genetic disorders will be focused (mucopolysaccharidoses and osteogenesis imperfecta). The flowing items are covered for each disease: (I) what is the pathophysiology of OSAS? (II) What is the incidence/prevalence of OSAS? (III) What result from the management and prognosis? (IV) What are the recommendations? Considering the worries of OSAS, such as inattention and behavioural problems, daytime sleepiness, failure to thrive, cardiological and metabolic complications, the benefit of a widespread screening and the treatment in children with genetic diseases is undoubtful. The goals of the further efforts can be the inclusion of various genetic diseases into guidelines for the screening of OSAS, updating the shreds of evidence based on the research progression.

Inflammatory myofibroblastic lung tumor: its birth, its bleeding growth, its difficult diagnosis and its surgical end in a child

The diagnosis of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is based on radiology and histology. The treatment is surgical, and the prognosis is good. For this reason, although this lung disease is rare, when a child show up at hospital with an unknown hemoptysis, this medical condition should not be underestimated.

Duration of topical therapy in the maintenance of atopic dermatitis remission in pediatric age

BACKGROUND

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the first-choice treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) flares. In literature there are clear advice about the potency, dosage and frequency of application of TCS, but there are no shared indications about duration of the treatment during a flare. The aim of the study is to demonstrate if the use of a steroid cream for less than or 5 days, could be equal or more effective than the application for more than 5 days during a flare episode, in keeping a remission state of AD.

METHODS

The study population (N.=122) was selected according to the following inclusion criteria: at least one specialist allergological and dermatological examination in the period November 2015 to February 2017, age between 1 and 11 years; mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. All patients were given a standardized telephone questionnaire, which concerns on multiple aspects: parents' self-reported perceptions of the severity of their child's condition; actual use of emollients, moisturizers and steroid creams; number of consecutive days of using of topical steroid cream during an exacerbation of AD; average number of AD exacerbations per month in the last year; total number of AD exacerbations in the last year.

RESULTS

Data from 96 patients was examined. We classified three groups of patients from data collected: group 1 (N.=40): use of TCS for ≤5 consecutive days during an exacerbation event of AD; group 2 (N.=12): use of TCS for >5 consecutive days during an exacerbation event of AD; group 3 (N.=44): nonuse of TCS or use of TCS with a different posology. We found a further subgroup in group 3 (3a, N.=27) with patients using only emollient crème in AD management. In group 1, 27 patients (67.5%) did not show a good AD control; on the contrary, 13 patients (27.5%) reported a good AD control. In group 2, 4 patients (25%) did not show a good AD control; on the contrary, 8 patients (75%) reported a good AD control. By comparing the data obtained in the presence of good AD control, the difference between the percentages obtained was found to be statistically significant (P=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained show that a therapeutic pattern based on the use of TCS for a duration of more than 5 consecutive days during an episode of AD exacerbation is more efficient than the proposed alternative therapeutic scheme in the maintenance of AD remission.

Duration of topical therapy in the maintenance of atopic dermatitis remission in pediatric age

BACKGROUND

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the first-choice treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) flares. In literature there are clear advice about the potency, dosage and frequency of application of TCS, but there are no shared indications about duration of the treatment during a flare. The aim of the study is to demonstrate if the use of a steroid cream for less than or 5 days, could be equal or more effective than the application for more than 5 days during a flare episode, in keeping a remission state of AD.

METHODS

The study population (N.=122) was selected according to the following inclusion criteria: at least one specialist allergological and dermatological examination in the period November 2015 to February 2017, age between 1 and 11 years; mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. All patients were given a standardized telephone questionnaire, which concerns on multiple aspects: parents' self-reported perceptions of the severity of their child's condition; actual use of emollients, moisturizers and steroid creams; number of consecutive days of using of topical steroid cream during an exacerbation of AD; average number of AD exacerbations per month in the last year; total number of AD exacerbations in the last year.

RESULTS

Data from 96 patients was examined. We classified three groups of patients from data collected: group 1 (N.=40): use of TCS for ≤5 consecutive days during an exacerbation event of AD; group 2 (N.=12): use of TCS for >5 consecutive days during an exacerbation event of AD; group 3 (N.=44): nonuse of TCS or use of TCS with a different posology. We found a further subgroup in group 3 (3a, N.=27) with patients using only emollient crème in AD management. In group 1, 27 patients (67.5%) did not show a good AD control; on the contrary, 13 patients (27.5%) reported a good AD control. In group 2, 4 patients (25%) did not show a good AD control; on the contrary, 8 patients (75%) reported a good AD control. By comparing the data obtained in the presence of good AD control, the difference between the percentages obtained was found to be statistically significant (P=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained show that a therapeutic pattern based on the use of TCS for a duration of more than 5 consecutive days during an episode of AD exacerbation is more efficient than the proposed alternative therapeutic scheme in the maintenance of AD remission.

Relationship between Erythrocyte Hexokinase in Cancer Patients and Red Cell Age

A study of hexokinase isozymic pattern and age dependence of the enzyme was carried out on erythrocytes of 4 patients with adenocarcinoma of the gastrointestinal tract. On the basis of our results, we think that the increase in hexokinase activity previously reported and the increase in both subtypes (Ia and Ib) of the enzyme herein described are not due to a mean younger red cell population caused by secondary anemia, which is frequently present in cancer patients.

Macrophage Phagocytosis and Allergen Avoidance in Children With Asthma

Background and Objective: Airway macrophages perform the crucial functions of presenting antigens, clearing pathogens, and apoptotic cells. Macrophage phagocytosis is increased in adults with mild asthma and allergen exposure is known to activate macrophages. However, it is not clear whether the mechanism behind this is due to a primary defect or environmental factors such as allergen or lipopolysaccaride (LPS) exposure. Our aim was to assess the phagocytic function of airway macrophages in children with mild to moderate asthma after residence in a low allergen\LPS environment at high altitude. Methods: Sputum induction was performed in children with asthma at baseline and after residence for a 3 weeks' period at a high-altitude asthma center that has very low ambient allergen levels. The markers of eosinophilic inflammation (including percentage of macrophage cytoplasm with red hue) and phagocytosis of fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled, heat-killed Staphylococcus aureus by airway macrophages was analyzed. Internalized bacteria were quantified using confocal microscopy. Results: The median bacterial count [mean (standard deviation)] per macrophage was significantly lower [39.55 (4.51) vs. 73.26 (39.42) (p = 0.006)] after residence at high altitude. No association was observed between markers of eosinophilic inflammation and bacterial phagocytosis. Conclusions: The results suggest that the mechanism behind the enhanced phagocytosis of bacteria in childhood asthma may be secondary to allergen or possibly LPS exposure.

Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children with Rare Skeletal Disorders: A Survey of Clinical Records

OBJECTIVE

Craniofacial disharmony in skeletal diseases is strongly associated with sleep-disordered breathing. This study was aimed at studying the sleep respiratory patterns in young children with rare skeletal disorders.

DESIGN

This retrospective study included children with achondroplasia (ACH), osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) and Ellis van Creveld Syndrome. Our subjects underwent an in-laboratory overnight respiratory polygraph between January 2012 and April 2016. All medical records were reviewed and brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging was conducted on patients with ACH, nasopharynx, oropharynx and laryngopharynx spaces.

PATIENTS

Twenty-four children were enrolled, 13 with ACH, 2 with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, 1 with odontochondrodysplasia, 6 with OI and 2 with Ellis van Creveld Syndrome.

RESULTS

Children with ACH, who had adenotonsillectomy, showed fewer sleep respiratory involvement than untreated children. Among 13 patients with ACH, brain magnetic resonance imaging was available in 10 subjects and significant negative correlation was found between sleep respiratory patterns, nasopharynx and oropharynx space (p < 0.05). In 2 patients with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, mild-to-moderate sleep respiratory involvement was found. Both subjects had a history of adenotonsillectomy. Mild sleep respiratory involvement was also observed in 4 out of 6 patients with OI. One patient with Ellis van Creveld syndrome had mild sleep respiratory disturbance.

CONCLUSIONS

Sleep respiratory disturbances were detected in children with ACH, and with less severity also in OI and Ellis van Creveld syndrome. Adenotonsillectomy was successful in ACH in reducing symptoms. In light of our findings, multicenter studies are needed to obtain further information on these rare skeletal diseases.

Measuring Airway Inflammation in Asthmatic Children

Asthma is the most common chronic respiratory disease in children characterized by airways inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, recurrent reversible airways obstruction, and respiratory symptoms. The diagnosis of the disease is based on clinical history, airways obstruction at spirometry, and bronchial reversibility. Asthma treatment is aimed to disease control, through the use of controller treatment and monitoring lung function. However, lung function and symptoms not always reflect the underlying airways inflammation and response to the therapy. Objective parameters of asthma inflammation could be important for the clinician in the management of patients with asthma. In the last years, some studies were focused on biomarkers to identify phenotype, inflammation, and pathobiological pathways to help the clinician in the diagnosis and in personalizing the management. Accordingly, clinically feasible tests are represented by the collection of exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and measurement of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). Other-methods such as the evaluation of volatile organic compound (VOCs), that reflect airways inflammation and treatment efficacy, are currently used for research purposes For some of these methods, The lack of standardization in pre-collection, collection, post-collection of samples, and interpretation of the results may a problem in clinical practice. Improved these limitations, several biomarkers will be useful to distinguish patients with a different disease condition to personalize the treatment.

Ambulatory clinical parameters and sleep respiratory events in a group of obese children unselected for respiratory problems

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea in children is frequently due to tonsil and adenoid hypertrophy. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ambulatory clinical parameters and sleep respiratory events in obese children.

METHODS

We carried out a prospective respiratory sleep study between 2013 and 2015. Nails obstruction, tonsils enlargement and palate position were subjectively measured. Italian attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) rating scale for parents was also performed. The polygraph study was performed using a portable ambulatory device.

RESULTS

Forty-four obese children were consecutively recruited into this study. Mild sleep respiratory disturbance was showed in 31.8 % of patients; 18.2% previously had an adeno (tonsillectomy). In 50% of these obese children, both apnea-hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index showed polygraph abnormal results. ADHD rating scale for parents scores were positive in 9.1% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high rate of mild sleep respiratory disturbance and ADHD-like symptoms referred by parents. The respiratory disturbance was not totally cured by surgery. Finally, otorhinolaryngology variables were not able to explain mild sleep respiratory disturbance.

Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children with Recurrent Wheeze/Asthma: A Single Centre Study

The relationship between asthma and sleep-disordered breathing is bidirectional due to common risk factors that promote airway inflammation. Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing and recurrent wheeze/asthma are conditions that involve the upper and the lower respiratory system, respectively. The aim of the present study was to investigate the sleep disordered breathing in children with recurrent wheeze/asthma. This was a retrospective study concerning children older than 2 years who underwent—between January 2014 and November 2016—an in-laboratory overnight polygraphic study. We match the children between those who do or do not have recurrent wheeze/asthma disease. We examined the clinical records of 137 children. We excluded eight patients because of neurological and genetic conditions. Children with recurrent wheeze/asthma (N = 28) were younger (p = 0.002) and leaner (p = 0.013) compared to non-affected children (N = 98). Children with wheeze/asthma and unaffected ones had a similar obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (p = 0.733) and oxygen desaturation index (p = 0.535). The logistic regression analysis, in which the condition of wheeze/asthma (yes/no) was a dependent variable, while demographic (age, sex, body mass index (BMI) Z-score) and polygraphic results during sleep (obstructive apnea-hypopnea index, central apnea index, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂), and snoring) were covariates, showed that children with wheeze/asthma had higher central apnea index (Exp(B) = 2.212; Wald 6.845; p = 0.009). In conclusion, children with recurrent wheeze/asthma showed an increased number of central sleep apneas than unaffected children. This finding may suggest a dysfunction of the breathing control in the central nervous system during sleep. Systemic or central inflammation could be the cause.

Serum and exhaled breath condensate leptin levels in asthmatic and obesity children: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have highlighted the possible involvement of leptin in inflammation. The leptin receptor is also expressed by alveolar macrophages, T lymphocytes and bronchial epitelial cells, suggesting a possible role in the cascade of airway inflammation.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the levels of leptin in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) from asthmatic, normal- and overweight children, in relationship with airway inflammation.

METHODS

15 asthmatic non-obese children, 15 healthy non-asthmatic non-obese children, 11 obese children with asthma (OA) and 20 obese children without asthma (ONA) were enrolled. Body impedance of body weight, EBC collection, FeNO, spirometry and a blood sampling for serum leptin were assessed.

RESULTS

Leptin EBC levels were significantly higher (3.9 ng ml^-1 ± 1.3) in overweight children than those obese with asthma (3.6 ng ml^-1 ± 1.6; p = 0.97), non-owerweight asthmatics (2.2 ng ml^-1 ± 1.2; p < 0.0001) and in healthy children (0.9 ng ml^-1 ± 0.6; p < 0.001). Leptin EBC levels in asthmatic children were significantly higher than in healthy children (p = 0.05). Leptin serum levels were significantly higher in the overweight children compared with the asthmatics (12.7 ng ml^-1 ± 13.2; p < 0.001) and the healthy group (11.1 ng ml^-1 ± 11.2; p < 0.001). We observed a significant correlation between EBC-leptin levels and the serum-leptin levels (p = 0.001). No correlations were found between EBC-leptin levels, FeNO and lung function.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that leptin is measurable in EBC in children and that EBC-leptin levels are significantly higher in the obese subjects and in asthmatic ones compared with healthy subjects. Leptin may therefore represent a non-invasive marker of non-specific airway inflammation in children.

Sleep-disordered breathing is associated with blood pressure and carotid arterial stiffness in obese children

INTRODUCTION

Both sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and high blood pressure (BP) occur more frequently among obese children than among normal weight children, and this may be due to endothelial dysfunction and worsened arterial stiffness. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between SDB and BP, and the possible role of endothelial function and local and systemic arterial stiffness in a sample of obese children asymptomatic for sleep disturbances.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-nine obese children were included in the study. Children underwent overnight limited channel polysomnography, and the vascular measurements included the following: office and 24-h ambulatory BP; brachial flow-mediated dilatation, carotid intima-media thickness and carotid distensibility measured using ultrasound; and systemic arterial stiffness index measured using digital volume pulse analysis.

RESULTS

Significant correlations between different BP measurements (both office and ambulatory BP monitoring and estimated by Z score) and SDB were found, including correlations involving the respiratory disturbance index, the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), the number of desaturations per hour and the mean peripheral saturation (r ranging between 0.330 and 0.474). Carotid distensibility was correlated with the AHI (r = -0.367; P = 0.030) and with the mean oxygen saturation (r = 0.401; P = 0.017). In contrast, there was no relationship among flow-mediated dilatation, stiffness index, carotid intima-media thickness and all the tested respiratory markers. In the multivariate analysis, the supine Z SBP remained independently associated with the number of desaturations per hour and the AHI, even after correction for carotid distensibility and BMI.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that in obese children asymptomatic for sleep respiratory problems, SDB might worsen BP, in part, through an increase in arterial stiffness.

Indoor/outdoor not-voluptuary-habit pollution and sleep-disordered breathing in children: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Exposure to environmental pollutants is advocated to be a major risk factor, with increased morbidity and mortality in humans due to acute and chronic airway inflammation. The aim of the present review is to show the literature research regarding the link between the sleep-disordered breathing and exposure to indoor/outdoor pollution in children. We hypothesized that environmental air pollution can play a role in childhood sleep-disordered breathing.

METHODS

We conducted an electronic search in Medline (with PubMed interface), Scopus and the ISI Web of Science using the keywords "sleep" or "sleep apnea" or "sleep disordered breathing" and "pollution" and "children" in "Title/Abstract/Keywords", with language restriction (non-English paper) and no date limitation to present. The tobacco smoke pollution is well established linking and is not considered for the present subject. We examined the strength of the evidence according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine [2011] and the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine [2009].

RESULTS

A total of 105 articles were identified, but 97 of these had to be excluded after an accurate reading of the title, abstract or full text. In the end, eight studies were selected for our analysis for a total of a total of 5,826 children. The results suggest an involvement (grade C) of environmental (not from voluptuary habits) pollution in the worsening of sleep-disordered breathing in children.

CONCLUSIONS

To date, some studies reported significant differences between areas with higher and lower pollutants and the interventions on indoor pollution reduced sleep-disordered breathing in children. Therefore, although the relevance of the argument is high, the number of studies and the interest in the subject seems at this time quite limited.

Management of acute respiratory diseases in the pediatric population: the role of oral corticosteroids

Respiratory diseases account for about 25% of all pediatric consultations, and 10% of these are for asthma. The other main pediatric respiratory diseases, in terms of incidence, are bronchiolitis, acute bronchitis and respiratory infections. Oral corticosteroids, in particular prednisolone, are often used to treat acute respiratory diseases given their anti-inflammatory effects. However, the efficacy of treatment with oral corticosteroids differs among the various types of pediatric respiratory diseases. Notably, also the adverse effects of corticosteroid treatment can differ depending on dosage, duration of treatment and type of corticosteroid administered — a case in point being growth retardation in long-course treatment. A large body of data has accumulated on this topic. In this article, we have reviewed the data and guidelines related to the role of oral corticosteroids in the treatment and management of pediatric bronchiolitis, wheezing, asthma and croup in the attempt to provide guidance for physicians. Also included is a section on the management of acute respiratory failure in children.

Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing, enuresis and combined disorders in children: chance or related association?

Nocturnal enuresis is usually diagnosed and treated by a primary paediatrician or family practitioner; if there is any doubt, the children may be referred to a paediatric urologist. Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing is a complex, multifactorial disorder. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is considered an important factor associated with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. Enuresis and obstructive sleep-disordered breathing are both frequent problems of sleep in childhood. We conducted an electronic search in Medline, Scopus and the ISI Web of Science to look for published material and identify a putative link between nocturnal enuresis and obstructive sleep-disordered breathing. A total number of 98 documents were found, but 24 of these had to be excluded after an attentive reading of the title, abstract or full text because the information therein was not suitable for the aims of our search. Studies have found that children with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome frequently also have nocturnal enuresis. Both disorders have an underlying sleep disturbance characterised by an altered arousal response and sleep fragmentation. The pathophysiology of enuretic events is seemingly linked to nocturnal obstructive events, causing increased intra-abdominal pressure and altered systemic blood pressure that induces natriuresis and polyuria by altering levels of antidiuretic hormone, and atrial and brain natriuretic peptides. We found 17 studies regarding the urological outcome of treatment for obstructive sleep-disordered breathing in children with enuresis. Although a vast amount of information is now available regarding the relationship between nocturnal enuresis and obstructive sleep-disordered breathing, many of the published studies were uncontrolled, retrospective or prospective cohort studies (grade C recommendation). Resolution of enuresis after medical or surgical treatment for obstructive sleep-disordered breathing has been emphasised. Consequently, symptoms such as snoring, sleep apnoeas and restless sleep should be sought for all children with enuresis. Confirmed obstructive sleep-disordered breathing should be treated promptly; subsequently, the persistence of enuresis requires treatment following the standard protocol.

Effect of montelukast on markers of airway remodeling in children with asthma

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a pathology characterized by chronic inflammation and remodeling of the airways.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of montelukast treatment on markers of airway inflammation and remodeling in children with mild asthma and to evaluate if the administration of montelukast to children with mild asthma could inhibit the release of matrix metallopeptidase 9, matrix metallopeptidase 12, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1, transforming growth factor beta 1, C-peptide terminal procollagen type (PICP), and eosinophils count, which are markers of inflammation and remodeling in induced sputum.

METHODS

Thirty children with mild asthma were recruited. They were randomized into two groups: group A received montelukast and as needed beta-2-agonist for 8 weeks (T0-T1), whereas group B received placebo and as needed beta-2-agonist for 8 weeks. After 2 weeks of washout (T1-T2), they were reallocated for treatment according a crossover design (T2-T3). Tests for lung function, oral exhaled nitric oxide, and hypertonic saline solution-induced sputum level were performed at T0-T1-T2-T3.

RESULTS

In the placebo group, the PICP mean (standard deviation [SD]) value at baseline was 2279.42 ± 2530.77 pg/mL and 1916.00 ± 2178.75 pg/mL after treatment. Patients treated with montelukast, in contrast, showed a baseline mean (SD) value of 2439.29 ± 2834.51 pg/mL and 1406.72 ± 1508.65 pg/mL after treatment. The difference between the mean pre- and posttreatment decrease of PICP in the two groups was statistically significant (delta -690.21 pg/mL [95% confidence interval, -1220.83 to -159.5844 pg/mL]; p = 0.011). The mean (SD) percentage of the eosinophil count in the placebo group was 3.11 ± 4.03% at baseline and 4.86 ± 5.83% after treatment. Patients treated with montelukast, in contrast, showed a percentage mean (SD) value at baseline of 4.51 ± 5.48% and, after treatment, of 3.06 ± 3.29%. The difference between the mean pre- and posttreatment decrease of the percentage eosinophil count in the two groups was statistically significant (delta -2.76% [95% confidence interval, -4.65 to -0.87%]; p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

This study investigated in vivo effects of montelukast on remodeling markers. The reduction of PICP levels and eosinophil count supported the hypothesis that montelukast can modulate collagen deposition in airways and reduce eosinophilic airway inflammation. Clinical Trials database clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00875082).

Monitoring asthma in childhood: lung function, bronchial responsiveness and inflammation

This review focuses on the methods available for measuring reversible airways obstruction, bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) and inflammation as hallmarks of asthma, and their role in monitoring children with asthma. Persistent bronchial obstruction may occur in asymptomatic children and is considered a risk factor for severe asthma episodes and is associated with poor asthma outcome. Annual measurement of forced expiratory volume in 1 s using office based spirometry is considered useful. Other lung function measurements including the assessment of BHR may be reserved for children with possible exercise limitations, poor symptom perception and those not responding to their current treatment or with atypical asthma symptoms, and performed on a higher specialty level. To date, for most methods of measuring lung function there are no proper randomised controlled or large longitudinal studies available to establish their role in asthma management in children. Noninvasive biomarkers for monitoring inflammation in children are available, for example the measurement of exhaled nitric oxide fraction, and the assessment of induced sputum cytology or inflammatory mediators in the exhaled breath condensate. However, their role and usefulness in routine clinical practice to monitor and guide therapy remains unclear, and therefore, their use should be reserved for selected cases.

Severe asthma features in children: a case-control online survey

Background

Very few studies have explored the distinguishing features of severe asthma in childhood in Europe, and only one study was conducted in Southern Europe. The aim of this study was to provide a detailed characterization of children with severe asthma treated in specialized pediatric asthma centers across Italy.

Methods

We conducted a web-based data collection of family, environmental, clinical and laboratory characteristics of 41 patients aged 6–17 years with severe asthma, defined according to the recent guidelines of the European Respiratory Society and the American Thoracic Society, and 78 age-matched peers with non-severe persistent asthma. The patients have been enrolled from 16 hospital-based pediatric pulmonology and allergy centers in Northern, Central, and Southern Italy. Logistic regression analysis assessed the relationship between patients’ characteristics and severe asthma or non-severe persistent asthma.

Results

Features independently and significantly associated with severe asthma included lifetime sensitization to food allergens [Odds ratio (OR), 4.73; 95 % Confidence Interval (CI), 1.21–18.53; p = 0.03], lifetime hospitalization for asthma (OR, 3.71; 95 % CI, 1.11–12.33; p = 0.03), emergency-department visits for asthma during the past year (OR = 11.98; 95 % CI, 2.70–53.11; p = 0.001), and symptoms triggered by physical activity (OR = 12.78; 95 % CI, 2.66–61.40; p = 0.001). Quality-of-life score was worse in patients with severe asthma than in subjects with non-severe persistent asthma (5.9 versus 6.6, p = 0.005). Self-perception of wellbeing was compromised in more than 40 % of patients in both groups. Children with severe asthma had lower spirometric z scores than non-severe asthmatic peers (all p < 0.001), although 56 % of them had a normal forced expiratory volume in 1 s. No differences were found between the two groups for parental education, home environment, patients’ comorbidities, adherence to therapy, exhaled nitric oxide values, and serum eosinophils and IgE .

Conclusions

As expected, children with severe asthma had more severe clinical course and worse lung function than peers with non-severe persistent asthma. Unlike previous reports, we found greater sensitization to food allergens and similar environmental and personal characteristics in patients with severe asthma compared to those with non-severe persistent asthma. Psychological aspects are compromised in a large number of cases and deserve further investigation.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13052-016-0217-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Recurrent wheezing in children

Recurrent wheezing have a significant morbidity and it's estimated that about one third of school-age children manifest the symptom during the first 5 years of life. Proper identification of children at risk of developing asthma at school age may predict long-term outcomes and improve treatment and preventive approach, but the possibility to identify these children at preschool age remains limited. For many years authors focused their studies to identify early children with recurrent wheezing at risk to develop asthma at school age. Different phenotypes have been proposed for a more precise characterization and a personalized plan of treatment. The main criticism concerns the inability to define stable phenotypes with the risk of overestimating or underestimating the characteristics of symptoms in these children. The aim of this review is to report the recent developments on the diagnosis and treatment of recurrent paediatric wheezing.

Sleep disordered breathing in a cohort of children with achondroplasia: correlation between clinical and instrumental findings

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to show the results of an overnight polysomnography in a cohort of 9 children (7 females and 2 males) with achondroplasia, aged between 1 and 12 years (5.56±4.7 years). All of the children carried the Gly380Arg (G380R) mutation on the FGFR3 gene.

METHODS

All the young patients underwent nocturnal polysomnography without sleep deprivation. Sleep staging was noted according to the guidelines of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. At the time of registration, the parents answered to a Sleep Control Test questionnaire regarding medical history and diurnal and nocturnal symptoms of their children.

RESULTS

Respiratory sleep disorder was present in 78% of cases, and was generally mild. In 67% of the children there was respiratory effort for more than 30% of the total sleep time. The sample was divided into two age categories: 5 children under the age of 3 years and 4 children over 10 years old. A higher incidence of sleep disorder was found in the first few years of life, where the obstructive pattern predominates. Regarding sleep architecture, we did not find macroscopic alterations of sleep architecture and its phasic manifestations in our paediatric group. However, parents have not been referred daytime sleepiness, attention deficiency, hyperactivity and nocturnal enuresis. Only one had referred recurrent respiratory infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Polysomnography is a very useful tool in the evaluation of sleep-disordered breathing in children with achondroplasia.

Monitoring asthma in children

The goal of asthma treatment is to obtain clinical control and reduce future risks to the patient. To reach this goal in children with asthma, ongoing monitoring is essential. While all components of asthma, such as symptoms, lung function, bronchial hyperresponsiveness and inflammation, may exist in various combinations in different individuals, to date there is limited evidence on how to integrate these for optimal monitoring of children with asthma. The aims of this ERS Task Force were to describe the current practise and give an overview of the best available evidence on how to monitor children with asthma. 22 clinical and research experts reviewed the literature. A modified Delphi method and four Task Force meetings were used to reach a consensus. This statement summarises the literature on monitoring children with asthma. Available tools for monitoring children with asthma, such as clinical tools, lung function, bronchial responsiveness and inflammatory markers, are described as are the ways in which they may be used in children with asthma. Management-related issues, comorbidities and environmental factors are summarised. Despite considerable interest in monitoring asthma in children, for many aspects of monitoring asthma in children there is a substantial lack of evidence.

Tidal-breathing measurement of exhaled breath temperature (EBT) in schoolchildren

BACKGROUND

Non-invasive assessment of airway inflammation is particularly useful in children. The exhaled breath temperature (EBT) may reflect inflammatory vasodilation and serve to assess respiratory symptoms and therapy with inhaled corticosteroids (ICs).

AIMS

To compare EBT with other non-invasive measurements in unselected schoolchildren in relation to respiratory symptoms and IC-therapy, as well as to assess reproducibility, and potentially influencing factors.

METHODS

In 298 Italian schoolchildren, we assessed tidal-EBT, FE(NO), spirometry, skin-prick tests, questionnaires on chronic respiratory symptoms, and medication. Subjects were divided as follows: reported wheeze, respiratory symptoms other than wheeze, and without symptoms.

RESULTS

Subjects with reported wheeze (n = 30) more frequently presented atopy, respiratory symptoms, higher FE(NO), lower lung function than subjects with symptoms other than wheeze (n = 141) and those without symptoms (n = 127), but had a similar EBT. IC-treated children (5 wheeze, 9 respiratory symptoms other than wheeze, 4 without chronic symptoms) had lower median (interquartile range) EBT levels than IC-untreated children (n = 280) [EBT: 31.7 (30.1-32.5) vs. 32.6 (31.4-33.4), P = 0.027]. Duplicate EBT measurements were highly reproducible (ICC = 0.94). In a multiple linear-regression model, EBT was explained by age, weight, duration of EBT measurement, FE(NO), and ambient temperature (r = 0.63, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Tidal-EBT measurements are easy to perform, reproducible, though symptom misclassification may affect the results obtained regarding the effect of IC therapy. Factors influencing EBT should be addressed in further epidemiological studies.

Endocrine check-up in adolescents and indications for referral: A guide for health care providers

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that young people between the ages of 11 and 21 years should be seen annually by their pediatricians, since annual checkups can be an important opportunity for health evaluation and anticipatory guidance. Parents of infants and young children are accustomed to regularly visiting a pediatrician for their child's checkups. Unfortunately, when children reach the teen years, these annual checkups may decrease in frequency. In routine check-ups and medical office visits, particular attention should be paid to the possibility of a developmental or endocrine disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent medical complications in adulthood and foster age-appropriate development. Our purpose is to acquaint readers with the concept, based on current scientific understanding, that some endocrine disorders may be associated with a wide range of deleterious health consequences including an increased risk of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, increased risk of coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, significant anxiety and lack of self-esteem. Understanding the milestones and developmental stages of adolescence is essential for pediatricians and all other health providers who care for adolescents. Treating adolescents involves knowledge of a variety of medical, social and legal information; in addition, close working relationships must be established within the adolescent's network to create an effective care system. In summary, we underline the importance of a periodic endocrine checkup in adolescents in order to identify endocrine problems early and develop an approach to treatment for those patients who need help during this time. Indications for endocrine referral for professional and other healthcare providers are also included. These lists are clearly not intended to be comprehensive, but will hopefully serve as a guide for specific clinical circumstances.

Neutrophil elastase-mediated increase in airway temperature during inflammation

BACKGROUND

How elevated temperature is generated during airway infections represents a hitherto unresolved physiological question. We hypothesized that innate immune defence mechanisms would increase luminal airway temperature during pulmonary infection.

METHODS

We determined the temperature in the exhaled air of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. To further test our hypothesis, a pouch inflammatory model using neutrophil elastase-deficient mice was employed. Next, the impact of temperature changes on the dominant CF pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa growth was tested by plating method and RNAseq.

RESULTS

Here we show a temperature of ~38°C in neutrophil-dominated mucus plugs of chronically infected CF patients and implicate neutrophil elastase:α1-proteinase inhibitor complex formation as a relevant mechanism for the local temperature rise. Gene expression of the main pathogen in CF, P. aeruginosa, under anaerobic conditions at 38°C vs 30°C revealed increased virulence traits and characteristic cell wall changes.

CONCLUSION

Neutrophil elastase mediates increase in airway temperature, which may contribute to P. aeruginosa selection during the course of chronic infection in CF.