Use of Management Pathways or Algorithms in Children With Chronic Cough: Systematic Reviews

Improving the Diagnosis and Treatment of Paediatric Bronchiectasis Through Research and Translation

Bronchiectasis, particularly in children, is an increasingly recognised yet neglected chronic lung disorder affecting individuals in both low-to-middle and high-income countries. It has a high disease burden and there is substantial inequity within and between settings. Furthermore, compared with other chronic lung diseases, considerably fewer resources are available for children with bronchiectasis. The need to prevent bronchiectasis and to reduce its burden also synchronously aligns with its high prevalence and economic costs to health services and society. Like many chronic lung diseases, bronchiectasis often originates early in childhood, highlighting the importance of reducing the disease burden in children. Concerted efforts are therefore needed to improve disease detection, clinical management and equity of care. Modifiable factors in the causal pathways of bronchiectasis, such as preventing severe and recurrent lower respiratory infections should be addressed, whilst also acknowledging the role played by social determinants of health. Here, we highlight the importance of early recognition/detection and optimal management of bronchiectasis in children, and outline our research, which is attempting to address important clinical knowledge gaps discussed in a recent workshop. The research is grouped under three themes focussing upon primary prevention, improving diagnosis and disease characterisation, and providing better management. Our hope is that others in multiple settings will undertake additional studies in this neglected field to further improve the lives of people with bronchiectasis. We also provide a resource list with links to help inform consumers and healthcare professionals about bronchiectasis and its recognition and management.

Cough in Children and Adults: Diagnosis, Assessment and Management (CICADA). Summary of an updated position statement on chronic cough in Australia

INTRODUCTION

Cough is the most common symptom leading to medical consultation. Chronic cough results in significant health care costs, impairs quality of life, and may indicate the presence of a serious underlying condition. Here, we present a summary of an updated position statement on cough management in the clinical consultation.

MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS

Assessment of children and adults requires a focused history of chronic cough to identify any red flag cough pointers that may indicate an underlying disease. Further assessment with examination should include a chest x-ray and spirometry (when age > 6 years). Separate paediatric and adult diagnostic management algorithms should be followed. Management of the underlying condition(s) should follow specific disease guidelines, as well as address adverse environmental exposures and patient/carer concerns. First Nations adults and children should be considered a high risk group. The full statement from the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand and Lung Foundation Australia for managing chronic cough is available at https://lungfoundation.com.au/resources/cicada-full-position-statement.

CHANGES IN MANAGEMENT AS A RESULT OF THIS STATEMENT

Algorithms for assessment and diagnosis of adult and paediatric chronic cough are recommended. High quality evidence supports the use of child-specific chronic cough management algorithms to improve clinical outcomes, but none exist in adults. Red flags that indicate serious underlying conditions requiring investigation or referral should be identified. Early and effective treatment of chronic wet/productive cough in children is critical. Culturally specific strategies for facilitating the management of chronic cough in First Nations populations should be adopted. If the chronic cough does not resolve or is unexplained, the patient should be referred to a respiratory specialist or cough clinic.

Cough Hypersensitivity Syndrome: Why Its Use Is Inappropriate in Children

In children and adults, chronic cough is a common symptom presenting to health professionals worldwide. It is internationally accepted that children with chronic cough should be managed with pediatric specific management guidelines. The newly proposed clinical entity of 'cough hypersensitivity syndrome' has gained significant attention in adult literature. Given the significant differences between childhood and adult chronic cough, including in respiratory physiology and anatomy, and cough sensitivity, we address the suitability of the use of cough hypersensitivity syndrome in children. We explore these differences between childhood and adult chronic cough, explain what cough hypersensitivity is and highlight why the term cough hypersensitivity syndrome should not be used in children.

Yardstick for managing cough. Part 2: in children

Nationwide statistics in the United States and Australia reveal that cough of undifferentiated duration is the most common complaint for which patients of all ages seek medical care in the ambulatory setting. Management of chronic cough is one of the most common reasons for new patient visits to respiratory specialists. Because symptomatic cough is such a common problem and so much has been learned about how to diagnose and treat cough of all durations but especially chronic cough, this 2-part yardstick has been written to review in a practical way the evidence-based guidelines most of which have been developed from high-quality systematic reviews on how best to manage cough of all durations in adults, adolescents, and children. Chronic cough in children is often benign and self-limiting. Using established and validated protocols and specific pointers (clues in history, findings on examination) can aid the clinician in identifying causes when present and improve outcomes. In this manuscript, part 2 of the 2-part series, we provide evidence-based, expert opinion recommendations on the management of chronic cough in the pediatric patient (<14 years of age).

Therapeutic principles and unmet needs in the treatment of cough in pediatric patients: review and expert survey

BACKGROUND

There are evidence gaps in the management of pediatric cough, particularly for acute pediatric cough. This study had two aims: to identify therapeutic principles and unmet needs in the treatment of cough in pediatric patients (internationally), and to consider the evidence required to address these unmet needs.

METHODS

A MEDLINE/PubMed database search was performed to identify articles describing therapeutic principles in the treatment of pediatric cough. An online survey of international pediatric cough experts was conducted, with questions on the definitions, diagnosis, treatment, and unmet needs in pediatric cough management.

RESULTS

Cough guidelines have differing definitions of pediatric patients (≤12-18 years), acute pediatric cough (< 2-3 weeks), and chronic pediatric cough (> 4-8 weeks). Similarly, among 18 experts surveyed, definitions varied for pediatric patients (≤10-21 years), acute pediatric cough (< 3-5 days to < 6 weeks), and chronic pediatric cough (> 2-8 weeks). Guidelines generally do not recommend over-the-counter or prescription cough medicines in acute pediatric cough, due to lack of evidence. In the expert survey, participants had differing opinions on which medicines were most suitable for treating acute pediatric cough, and noted that effective treatments are lacking for cough-related pain and sleep disruption. Overall, guidelines and experts agreed that chronic pediatric cough requires diagnostic investigations to identify the underlying cough-causing disease and thereby to guide treatment. There are unmet needs for new effective and safe treatments for acute pediatric cough, and for randomized controlled trials of existing treatments. Safety is a particular concern in this vulnerable patient population. There is also a need for better understanding of the causes, phenotypes, and prevalence of pediatric cough, and how this relates to its diagnosis and treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas pediatric cough guidelines largely align with regard to the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough, there is limited evidence-based guidance for the management of acute cough. There is a need for harmonization of pediatric cough management, and the development of standard guidelines suitable for all regions and patient circumstances.

Cough hypersensitivity and chronic cough

Chronic cough is globally prevalent across all age groups. This disorder is challenging to treat because many pulmonary and extrapulmonary conditions can present with chronic cough, and cough can also be present without any identifiable underlying cause or be refractory to therapies that improve associated conditions. Most patients with chronic cough have cough hypersensitivity, which is characterized by increased neural responsivity to a range of stimuli that affect the airways and lungs, and other tissues innervated by common nerve supplies. Cough hypersensitivity presents as excessive coughing often in response to relatively innocuous stimuli, causing significant psychophysical morbidity and affecting patients' quality of life. Understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to cough hypersensitivity and excessive coughing in different patient populations and across the lifespan is advancing and has contributed to the development of new therapies for chronic cough in adults. Owing to differences in the pathology, the organs involved and individual patient factors, treatment of chronic cough is progressing towards a personalized approach, and, in the future, novel ways to endotype patients with cough may prove valuable in management.

Changes in Cough Reflex Sensitivity in Children After Removal of Hypertrophied Adenoid Tissue

Purpose

The co-occurrence of adenoids and chronic cough is common in children. The goal of this research was to specify changes in cough reflex sensitivity as a result of adenoid tissue removal.

Patients and Methods

The sample group consisted of 17 children (six boys and 11 girls, aged 4–12 years, mean age 6.24 years), all of them possessing symptoms of chronic cough and adenoids, confirmed by nasal fiberoptic endoscopy. This sample group underwent cough reflex sensitivity assessment, which took place both prior to and after endoscopic adenoidectomy. The definition of the cough reflex sensitivity is the lowest capsaicin concentration that caused two (C2) or five (C5) coughs. Capsaicin aerosol in ascending concentrations (from 0.61 to 1250 µmol/L) was inhaled by a single-breath method (KoKo DigiDoser), with the addition of an inspiratory flow regulator valve (RIFR).

Results

Concentrations of capsaicin causing two (C2) and five coughs (C5) were reported. Cough sensitivity (geometric mean with 95% CI) for C2 was 31.86 (12.98–78.18) µmol/L preoperatively and 11.97 (6.16–23.26) µmol/L postoperatively (P=0.064). Cough sensitivity for C5 was 234.91 (97.19–567.77) µmol/L preoperatively and 69.13 (29.08–164.35) µmol/L postoperatively (P=0.022). The children’s pulmonary function was within the normal range.

Conclusion

In our study, adenoidectomy significantly increased cough reflex sensitivity in non-atopic children suffering from chronic cough.

Difficult-to-Treat Asthma Management in School-Age Children

The World Health Organization divides severe asthma into three categories: untreated severe asthma; difficult-to-treat severe asthma; and severe, therapy-resistant asthma. The apparent frequency of severe asthma in the general population of asthmatic children is probably around 5%. Upon referral of these children, it is important to evaluate the diagnosis of asthma carefully before modifying management and applying a long-term monitoring plan. Identification of pathophysiologic phenotypes using objective biomarkers is essential in our routine assessments of severe asthma. Although conventional pharmacologic approaches should be attempted first, there is growing recognition that children with difficult-to-treat asthma may have unique clinical phenotypes that may necessitate alternative treatment approaches including asthma biologics. These new medications, especially those with effects on multiple pathologic features of asthma, raise the hope that new treatment strategies could induce remission. Besides introducing new medications, the opportunity for closer monitoring is feasible with advances in digital health. Therefore, we have the opportunity to improve response to medications, individualize treatment, and monitor response along with potential steps to prevent severe asthma.

Process of diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough in children at primary hospitals

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to establish a process for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough in children suitable at primary hospitals and improve the treatment efficacy rate and improve health economic indicators.

METHODS

Children who visited the Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Zhou Pu Hospital of the Shanghai Health Medical College from January to December 2021 were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 206), in which the diagnosis and treatment process proposed here was applied, and a control group (n = 211) that did not follow the intervention pathway and followed a pathway with the doctors usual practice based on his/her previous experience. Patients were followed up and data were collected at weeks 0 (time of enrollment), 2, 4, 8, and 12 to evaluate the efficacy rate and clinical value.

RESULTS

(1) No significant differences were detected between the two groups in baseline characteristics, including gender, age, duration of cough (weeks), history of allergy in children and parents, and smoking of family members living in the same household (p > 0.05); (2) During the follow-up, all cough symptom scores of the intervention group were lower than the control group. Additionally, at week 12, the treatment efficacy rate of the intervention group (91.70%) was significantly higher than the control group (69.20%) (p < 0.05); (3) The quality of life of children in both groups at week 12 was improved compared to the first visit. However, the total score of the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05); (4) At week 12, the referral rate was significantly lower in the intervention group (11.17%) than in the control group (21.33%); (5) The intervention group was better than the control group for the mean monthly medication costs, number of days on errors in childhood, and number of days mistakenly worked by family members at week 12 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The current process of diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough in children at primary hospitals can improve the effective diagnosis and treatment rate, the quality of life, and other parameters, with good effectiveness and feasibility.

Respiratory, birth and health economic measures for use with Indigenous Australian infants in a research trial: a modified Delphi with an Indigenous panel

Background

There is significant disparity between the respiratory health of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian infants. There is no culturally accepted measure to collect respiratory health outcomes in Indigenous infants. The aim of this study was to gain end user and expert consensus on the most relevant and acceptable respiratory and birth measures for Indigenous infants at birth, between birth and 6 months, and at 6 months of age follow-up for use in a research trial.

Methods

A three round modified Delphi process was conducted from February 2018 to April 2019. Eight Indigenous panel members, and 18 Indigenous women participated. Items reached consensus if 7/8 (≥80%) panel members indicated the item was ‘very essential’. Qualitative responses by Indigenous women and the panel were used to modify the 6 months of age surveys.

Results

In total, 15 items for birth, 48 items from 1 to 6 months, and five potential questionnaires for use at 6 months of age were considered. Of those, 15 measures for birth were accepted, i.e., gestational age, birth weight, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admissions, length, head circumference, sex, Apgar score, substance use, cord blood gas values, labour, birth type, health of the mother, number people living in the home, education of mother and place of residence. Seventeen measures from 1-to 6 months of age were accepted, i.e., acute respiratory symptoms (7), general health items (2), health care utilisation (6), exposure to tobacco smoke (1), and breastfeeding status (1). Three questionnaires for use at 6 months of age were accepted, i.e., a shortened 33-item respiratory questionnaire, a clinical history survey and a developmental questionnaire.

Conclusions

In a modified Delphi process with an Indigenous panel, measures and items were proposed for use to assess respiratory, birth and health economic outcomes in Indigenous Australian infants between birth and 6 months of age. This initial step can be used to develop a set of relevant and acceptable measures to report respiratory illness and birth outcomes in community based Indigenous infants.

Risk Factors for Chronic Cough in Young Children: A Cohort Study

Background and Objective: Data on the predictors of chronic cough development in young children are scarce. Our primary objective was to examine the factors associated with young children developing a chronic cough, with a focus on childcare attendance. Methods: A secondary analysis of data collected in a prospective cohort study of children presenting to three emergency departments and three primary healthcare centers in southeast Queensland, Australia. Eligible children where those aged <6-years presenting with cough and without known underlying chronic lung disease other than asthma. Children were followed for 4 weeks to ascertain cough duration. The primary outcome was persistent cough at day-28. Logistic regression models were undertaken to identify independent predictors of chronic cough including sensitivity analyses that accounted for children with unknown cough status at day-28. Results: In 362 children, 95 (26.2%) were classified as having chronic cough. In models that included only children for whom cough status was known at day-28, symptom duration at enrolment, age <12 months [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 4.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1, 18.7], gestational age (aOR 3.2, 95%CI 1.4, 7.9), underlying medical conditions (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3, 5.5), a history of wheeze (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.4, 4.8) and childcare attendance (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2, 4.4) were independent predictors of chronic cough. Amongst childcare attendees only, 64 (29.8%) had chronic cough at day-28. The strongest predictor of chronic cough amongst childcare attendees was continued attendance at childcare during their illness (aOR = 12.9, 95% CI 3.9, 43.3). Conclusion: Gestational age, underlying medical conditions, prior wheeze and childcare attendance are risk factors for chronic cough in young children. Parents/careers need to be aware of the risks associated with their child continuing to attend childcare whilst unwell and childcare centers should reinforce prevention measures in their facilities.

Effectiveness of a chronic cough management algorithm at the transitional stage from acute to chronic cough in children: a multicenter, nested, single-blind, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic (lasting at least 4 weeks) cough in children is an important cause of morbidity. An algorithmic approach to the management of coughs in children evaluated in observational studies and a randomised controlled trial (RCT) enrolled children referred with median cough duration of 16 weeks to specialist centres. We investigated whether applying an evidence-based cough management algorithm in non-specialist settings earlier, once cough persisted for more than 4 weeks, improved cough resolution compared with usual care.

METHODS

We undertook a multicentre, single-blind RCT nested within a prospective cohort study of children (<15 years) in Australia presenting to three primary care or three hospital emergency departments with an acute respiratory illness with cough. Children were excluded if they had a known diagnosis of an underlying chronic medical condition (excluding asthma) or had an immunosuppressive illness or were taking immunomodulating drugs for more than 2 weeks in the preceding 30 days, or had severe symptoms requiring inpatient hospitalisation. Children were followed up for 8 weeks; those with a persistent cough at day 28 were randomly assigned to the cough management algorithm or to usual care. Randomisation was stratified by reason for presentation, study site, and cough duration (4 weeks to <6 weeks vs ≥6 weeks) using computer-generated permuted blocks (block size of four) with a 1:1 allocation. The primary outcome was the proportion of children with cough resolution at day 56 (defined as resolved if the child did not cough for at least 3 days and nights since day 28 or a more than 75% reduction in their average day and night cough score). Absolute risk differences (RD_absolute) were calculated by modified intention-to-treat analysis (ITT). This trial is registered with the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12615000132549.

FINDINGS

Between July 7, 2015, and Oct 31, 2018, 1018 children were screened, 509 were enrolled in the cohort study, and of 115 children in the ITT analysis, 57 were randomly assigned to the intervention group and 58 to the control group. Children had a median age of 1·6 years (IQR 1·0-4·5); 45 (39%) of 115 were Indigenous, and 59 (51%) were boys. By day 56, 33 (58%) of 57 children in the intervention group achieved cough resolution compared with 23 (40%) 58 in the control group; cough resolution was unknown in 12 (21%) of 57 children receiving the intervention and in 13 (22%) of 58 receiving the control. The RD_absolute assuming children with an unknown cough outcome were still coughing at day 56 was 18·3% (95% CI 0·3-36·2); the number needed-to-treat for benefit was five (95% CI 3-364); the adjusted odds ratio was 1·5 (95% CI 1·3-1·6), favouring the intervention group.

INTERPRETATION

This study suggests an evidence-based cough management algorithm improves cough resolution in community-based children in the early phases of chronic cough. However, larger studies to confirm these findings in primary care are required.

FUNDING

National Health and Medical Research Council.

Review shows paediatric protracted bacterial bronchitis needs an accurate diagnosis and strictly targeted extended antibiotics

AIM

In 2017, the European Respiratory Society task force stated that protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) was a distinct clinical entity and outlined the diagnostic criteria and principles for treatment. However, this guidance was based on data from Australia and the USA. This mini review evaluated the data and addressed the lack of research-based data from Europe.

METHODS

We supplemented the 2017 report by conducting a nonsystematic review of the literature on prolonged wet or productive cough and on PBB in children up to September 2018.

RESULTS

Our review confirmed the lack of European data on PBB. Based on the available literature, and the 2017 European guidance, PBB is a wet or productive cough that lasts for four or more weeks, with no signs or symptoms, known as specific cough pointers, which suggest an underlying illness. PBB usually recovers with appropriate antibiotics for two weeks. Failing that radiological investigations or lung function measurements are needed. If PBB occurs three times over 12 months, then computerised tomography can diagnose bronchiectasis and determine other permanent changes.

CONCLUSION

More data are needed on PBB, especially in Europe. The implementation of PBB may help clinicians to prescribe antibiotics more effectively and reduce their inappropriate use.

Chronic Cough and Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report

BACKGROUND

Whether gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or GER disease (GERD) causes chronic cough in children is controversial. Using the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) format, we undertook four systematic reviews. For children with chronic cough (> 4-weeks duration) and without underlying lung disease: (1) who do not have gastrointestinal GER symptoms, should empirical treatment for GERD be used? (2) with gastrointestinal GER symptoms, does treatment for GERD resolve the cough? (3) with or without gastrointestinal GER symptoms, what GER-based therapies should be used and for how long? (4) if GERD is suspected as the cause, what investigations and diagnostic criteria best determine GERD as the cause of the cough?

METHODS

We used the CHEST Expert Cough Panel's protocol and American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) methodological guidelines and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) framework. Delphi methodology was used to obtain consensus.

RESULTS

Few randomized controlled trials addressed the first two questions and none addressed the other two. The single meta-analysis (two randomized controlled trials) showed no significant difference between the groups (any intervention for GERD vs placebo for cough resolution; OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.45-2.93; P = .78). Proton pump inhibitors (vs placebo) caused increased serious adverse events. Qualitative data from existing CHEST cough systematic reviews were consistent with two international GERD guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

The panelists endorsed that: (1) treatment(s) for GERD should not be used when there are no clinical features of GERD; and (2) pediatric GERD guidelines should be used to guide treatment and investigations.

Contemplating Chronic Cough in Children

Chronic cough is one of the most common reasons children seek care from their pediatrician. A cough can be distressing both to the patient and family as it may raise concerns for a significant underlying diagnosis that could warrant a thorough investigation. Chronic cough can be challenging for the family and the pediatrician due to its broad differential diagnosis. This article highlights an approach to categorizing the differential diagnoses of chronic cough to help guide testing or treatment when evaluating a pediatric patient with chronic cough. [Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(3):e115-e120.].

Evaluation of children with chronic cough including obstructive sleep apnea: a single-center experience

Chronic cough in children may be due to a diverse range of etiologies. We aimed to evaluate children with chronic cough following a standardized cough algorithm and assess obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as a possible etiology. In addition, cough resolution rates of two different treatment protocols in children with non-specific cough were compared. A total of 237 children referred for chronic cough were assessed and classified according to etiologies. Children with non-specific cough were assigned either in the early-arm (group-1, n = 13) or delayed arm (group-2, n = 23). The presence of OSA was evaluated using a pediatric sleep questionnaire, and polysomnography was handled in indicated patients. Asthma (n = 82) and protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) (n = 73) were the most frequent etiologies. Cough resolution was higher in group-1 (100%) compared with group-2 (50%) (absolute risk reduction (rr) = 43.48% [95% CI 21.38-65.58%]). Polysomnography revealed mild (n = 6), moderate (n = 7), or severe (n = 5) OSA in 18 children, with adenoid/adenotonsillary hypertrophy as the leading cause.Conclusion: We recognized asthma and PBB as the most frequent causes of chronic cough in our cohort. Early treatment of patients with high parental anxiety might be beneficial. We also believe that further studies including larger series might eventuate in incorporation of assessment of OSA to standardized algorithms. What is known? • Chronic cough in children may be due to a diverse range of etiologies, including serious respiratory disorders. Thus, its correct diagnosis and treatment are essential. • Although a well-defined reason of chronic cough in adults, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has not been been evaluated so far in children with chronic cough. What is new? • We examined OSA for the first time as a possible cause of chronic cough in children and detected OSA with polysomnography in cases who scored high pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) scores. • We believe that studies including larger series might eventuate in incorporation of assessment of OSA to standardized algorithms for children with chronic cough.

Use of Dipstick Assay and Rapid PCR-DNA Analysis of Nasal Secretions for Diagnosis of Bacterial Sinusitis in Children With Chronic Cough

BACKGROUND

Chronic cough in children is a diagnostic challenge.

OBJECTIVE

To discover the utility of nasal dipsticks and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-DNA analysis in differentiating bacterial sinusitis from other causes of chronic cough and identifying pathogens from the nasal cavity.

METHOD

We recruited 22 patients under 15 years of age with cough lasting longer than 4 weeks (group 1), 7 controls with allergic rhinitis (group 2), and 10 controls without respiratory symptoms (group 3). Based on symptoms, the results of nasal secretion assays, and nasal endoscopy, a diagnosis of clinical bacterial sinusitis was made. We identified potential pathogens by quantitative PCR of nasal secretions.

RESULTS

Group 1A (cough with clinical bacterial sinusitis n = 10): Eight (80%) patients had bacterial sinusitis associated with dominant potential pathogenic bacteria (PPB): Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Group 1B (cough without clinical bacterial sinusitis n = 12): None had dominant PPB. Group 2 (allergic rhinitis n = 7): None had dominant PPB. Group 3 (asymptomatic n = 10): None had dominant PPB. Twenty to 57% of all groups were colonized with Staphylococcus aureus. Fifty to 70% were colonized with Staphylococcus epidermidis, Corynebacterium pseudodiphtheriticum, and Dolosigranulum pigrum.

CONCLUSION

In children with chronic cough, clinicians can utilize a simple and inexpensive nasal secretion dipstick assay for rapid diagnosis of sinusitis and identify PPB by DNA-PCR test for specific antibiotic treatment.

Antibiotics for prolonged wet cough in children

BACKGROUND

Cough is a frequent symptom presenting to doctors. The most common cause of childhood chronic (greater than fours weeks' duration) wet cough is protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) in some settings, although other more serious causes can also present this way. Timely and effective management of chronic wet or productive cough improves quality of life and clinical outcomes. Current international guidelines suggest a course of antibiotics is the first treatment of choice in the absence of signs or symptoms specific to an alternative diagnosis. This review sought to clarify the current evidence to support this recommendation.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the efficacy of antibiotics in treating children with prolonged wet cough (excluding children with bronchiectasis or other known underlying respiratory illness) and to assess risk of harm due to adverse events.

SEARCH METHODS

We undertook an updated search (from 2008 onwards) using the Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, trials registries, review articles and reference lists of relevant articles. The latest searches were performed in September 2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing antibiotics with a placebo or a control group in children with chronic wet cough. We excluded cluster and cross-over trials.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methods as recommended by Cochrane. We reviewed results of searches against predetermined criteria for inclusion. Two independent review authors selected, extracted and assessed the data for inclusion. We contacted authors of eligible studies for further information as needed. We analysed data as 'intention to treat.'

MAIN RESULTS

We identified three studies as eligible for inclusion in the review. Two were in the previous review and one new study was included. We considered the older studies to be at high or unclear risk of bias whereas we judged the newly included study at low risk of bias. The studies varied in treatment duration (from 7 to 14 days) and the antibiotic used (two studies used amoxicillin/clavulanate acid and one used erythromycin).We included 190 children (171 completed), mean ages ranged from 21 months to six years, in the meta-analyses. Analysis of all three trials (190 children) found that treatment with antibiotics reduced the proportion of children not cured at follow-up (primary outcome measure) (odds ratio (OR) 0.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07 to 0.31, using intention-to -treat analysis), which translated to a number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) of 3 (95% CI 2 to 4). We identified no significant heterogeneity (for both fixed-effect and random-effects model the I² statistic was 0%). Two older trials assessed progression of illness, defined by requirement for further antibiotics (125 children), which was significantly lower in the antibiotic group (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.34; NNTB 4, 95% CI 3 to 5). All three trials (190 children) reported adverse events, which were not significantly increased in the antibiotic group compared to the control group (OR 1.88, 95% CI 0.62 to 5.69). We assessed the quality of evidence GRADE rating as moderate for all outcome measures, except adverse events which we assessed as low quality.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence suggests antibiotics are efficacious for the treatment of children with chronic wet cough (greater than four weeks) with an NNTB of three. However, antibiotics have adverse effects and this review reported only uncertainty as to the risk of increased adverse effects when they were used in this setting. The inclusion of a more robust study strengthened the previous Cochrane review and its results.

The effect of adenoidectomy on cough reflex sensitivity in atopic children

The aim of this study was to determine whether cough sensitivity is changed after adenoidectomy in atopic children with chronic cough. 21 Children having symptoms of chronic cough and adenoid hypertrophy verified by nasal fiberoptic endoscopy were submitted to cough sensitivity measurement before and after adenoidectomy. Their pulmonary function was within normal range. Concentrations of capsaicin causing two (C2) and five coughs (C5) were reported. Children' (14 boys and 7 girls, mean age 6,52 yrs) cough sensitivity (geometric mean, with 95% CI) for C2 was preoperatively (before adenoidectomy) 19.95 (9.95-39.98) micromol/l vs. children' C2 postoperatively 14.04 (7.16-27.55) (P = .083 for Wilcoxon paired two sample test). Children' C5 was preoperatively 86.26 (39.25-189.57) micromol/l vs. C5 postoperatively 95.23 (46.33-195.75) micromol/l (P = .794 for Wilcoxon paired two sample test). We conclude that cough sensitivity for C2 and C5 was not significantly changed after adenoidectomy in atopic children with chronic cough.

Fifteen-minute consultation: A structured approach to the management of chronic cough in a child

Coughing is a primary pulmonary defence mechanism that enhances clearance of secretions and particles from the airways and protects against aspiration of foreign materials. Coughing may affect 30% of children at any given time (1). Many are healthy children but some may have serious underlying disease. Childhood cough accounts for a large number of consultations and 80% of families who are referred to a paediatric respiratory clinic for chronic cough have sought medical advice five times or more (2). The majority of childhood coughs are secondary to an acute respiratory tract infection and will improve once the infection resolves, usually within 1 to 3 weeks. With pre-school children who may experience between 6 and 10 respiratory infections a year differentiating acute recurrent cough from chronic cough is key (Table 1). Chronic cough can significantly impact a family's quality of life, as it affects the child's sleep, school attendance and play. Parents experience distress and anxiety, worrying that the cough may lead to long-term chest damage or even death (3). This article aims to guide clinicians through the assessment of the child with a chronic cough. It will discuss identifying causes, use of first line investigations, initiating appropriate management and addressing parental anxiety and exacerbating factors (4,5).

ERS statement on protracted bacterial bronchitis in children

This European Respiratory Society statement provides a comprehensive overview on protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) in children. A task force of experts, consisting of clinicians from Europe and Australia who manage children with PBB determined the overall scope of this statement through consensus. Systematic reviews addressing key questions were undertaken, diagrams in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement constructed and findings of relevant studies summarised. The final content of this statement was agreed upon by all members.The current knowledge regarding PBB is presented, including the definition, microbiology data, known pathobiology, bronchoalveolar lavage findings and treatment strategies to manage these children. Evidence for the definition of PBB was sought specifically and presented. In addition, the task force identified several major clinical areas in PBB requiring further research, including collecting more prospective data to better identify the disease burden within the community, determining its natural history, a better understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms and how to optimise its treatment, with a particular requirement for randomised controlled trials to be conducted in primary care.

Etiologies of Chronic Cough in Pediatric Cohorts: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report

BACKGROUND

There is no published systematic review on the etiologies of chronic cough or the relationship between OSA and chronic cough in children aged ≤ 14 years. We thus undertook a systematic review based on key questions (KQs) using the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome format. The KQs follow: Among children with chronic (> 4 weeks) cough (KQ 1) are the common etiologies different from those in adults? (KQ 2) Are the common etiologies age or setting dependent, or both? (KQ 3) Is OSA a cause of chronic cough in children?

METHODS

We used the CHEST Expert Cough Panel's protocol and the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) methodological guidelines and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework. Data from the systematic reviews in conjunction with patients' values and preferences and the clinical context were used to form recommendations. Delphi methodology was used to obtain consensus.

RESULTS

Combining KQs 1 and 2, we found moderate-level evidence from 10 prospective studies that the etiologies of cough in children are different from those in adults and are setting dependent. Data from three studies found that common etiologies of cough in young children were different from those in older children. However, data relating sleep abnormalities to chronic cough in children were found only in case studies.

CONCLUSIONS

There is moderate-quality evidence that common etiologies of chronic cough in children are different from those in adults and are dependent on age and setting. As there are few data relating OSA and chronic cough in children, the panel suggested that these children should be managed in accordance with pediatric sleep guidelines.

Survey on attitudes of Italian pediatricians toward cough

CONTEXT

Children's cough is a daily concern for most pediatricians. The management of both acute and chronic cough requires a systematic and comprehensive approach. Despite the approved protocols for management, the pediatric assessment of cough and the corresponding prescribing attitude frequently do not fit these protocols, which can be affected by parental suggestions - sometimes substantially.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate both the perception and the behavior of a representative sample of Italian pediatricians toward cough in real life.

METHODS

A specific questionnaire consisting of 18 questions was prepared. The questionnaire was completed by 300 pediatricians (all members of PAIDOSS: Italian National Observatory on Health of Childhood and Adolescence) who represented ~300,000 children.

RESULTS

A vast majority of children have cough throughout the year (99.3% of respondents have cough during autumn/winter and 64.7% in spring/summer). Allergic disease is the most frequent suspected cause of chronic cough in children (53%), and this is supported by the high demand for consultations: 73% seek the opinion of allergologists, 62% of otorhinolaryngologists and only 33% of pulmonologists. The majority of pediatricians (92%) reported that they prescribe therapy in acute cough regardless of cough guidelines. Moreover, the survey pointed out the abuse of aerosol therapy (26% in acute cough and 38% in chronic cough) and of antibiotics prescription (22% in acute cough and 42% in chronic cough).

CONCLUSION

Our survey suggests that some Italian pediatricians' therapeutic attitudes should be substantially improved in order to achieve better management of cough in children and to minimize the burden of cough.

When is cough functional, and how should it be treated?

Key points

Educational aims

Summary

Involuntary cough without an identified underlying organic reason has been given various names and recommended treatments. Current experience in children and adolescents suggests that “habit cough” best describes this entity, and suggestion therapy is a highly effective treatment that most physicians can learn.

Diagnosis of the functional disorder called habit cough can be readily made by the unique clinical characteristicshttp://ow.ly/Al5B3094oxj

Management of Children With Chronic Wet Cough and Protracted Bacterial Bronchitis: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report

BACKGROUND

Wet or productive cough is common in children with chronic cough. We formulated recommendations based on systematic reviews related to the management of chronic wet cough in children (aged ≤ 14 years) based on two key questions: (1) how effective are antibiotics in improving the resolution of cough? If so, what antibiotic should be used and for how long? and (2) when should children be referred for further investigations?

METHODS

We used the CHEST expert cough panel's protocol for systematic reviews and the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) methodologic guidelines and GRADE framework (the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation). Data from the systematic reviews in conjunction with patients' values and preferences and the clinical context were used to form recommendations. Delphi methodology was used to obtain consensus for the recommendations/suggestions made.

RESULTS

Combining data from the systematic reviews, we found high-quality evidence in children aged ≤ 14 years with chronic (> 4 weeks' duration) wet/productive cough that using appropriate antibiotics improves cough resolution, and further investigations (eg, flexible bronchoscopy, chest CT scans, immunity tests) should be undertaken when specific cough pointers (eg, digital clubbing) are present. When the wet cough does not improve following 4 weeks of antibiotic treatment, there is moderate-quality evidence that further investigations should be considered to look for an underlying disease. New recommendations include the recognition of the clinical diagnostic entity of protracted bacterial bronchitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the 2006 Cough Guidelines, there is now high-quality evidence for some, but not all, aspects of the management of chronic wet cough in specialist settings. However, further studies (particularly in primary health) are required.

Use of Management Pathways or Algorithms in Children With Chronic Cough: CHEST Guideline and Expert Panel Report

BACKGROUND

Using management algorithms or pathways potentially improves clinical outcomes. We undertook systematic reviews to examine various aspects in the generic approach (use of cough algorithms and tests) to the management of chronic cough in children (aged ≤ 14 years) based on key questions (KQs) using the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome format.

METHODS

We used the CHEST Expert Cough Panel's protocol for the systematic reviews and the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) methodological guidelines and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. Data from the systematic reviews in conjunction with patients' values and preferences and the clinical context were used to form recommendations. Delphi methodology was used to obtain the final grading.

RESULTS

Combining data from systematic reviews addressing five KQs, we found high-quality evidence that a systematic approach to the management of chronic cough improves clinical outcomes. Although there was evidence from several pathways, the highest evidence was from the use of the CHEST approach. However, there was no or little evidence to address some of the KQs posed.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the 2006 Cough Guidelines, there is now high-quality evidence that in children aged ≤ 14 years with chronic cough (> 4 weeks' duration), the use of cough management protocols (or algorithms) improves clinical outcomes, and cough management or testing algorithms should differ depending on the associated characteristics of the cough and clinical history. A chest radiograph and, when age appropriate, spirometry (pre- and post-β₂ agonist) should be undertaken. Other tests should not be routinely performed and undertaken in accordance with the clinical setting and the child's clinical symptoms and signs (eg, tests for tuberculosis when the child has been exposed).

The Incidence and Short-term Outcomes of Acute Respiratory Illness with Cough in Children from a Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Urban Community in Australia: A Community-Based Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Acute respiratory illnesses with cough (ARIwC) are predominant causes of morbidity in Australian Indigenous children; however, data on disease burden in urban communities are scarce. This study aimed to determine the incidence of ARIwC, the predictors of recurrent (≥4 episodes) ARIwC, and development of chronic cough following an ARIwC in urban, predominantly Indigenous, children aged <5 years from northern Brisbane, Australia.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study of children aged <5 years registered with a primary healthcare center. ARIwC episodes and outcomes were collected for 12 months. Recurrent ARIwC was defined as ≥4 episodes in 12 months. Chronic cough was defined as cough lasting >4 weeks. Children who developed chronic cough were reviewed by a pediatric pulmonologist. Incidence densities per child-month of observation were calculated and predictors of recurrent ARIwC and chronic cough were evaluated in logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Between February 2013 and November 2015, 200 children were enrolled; median age of 18.1 months, range (0.7-59.7 months) and 90% identified as Indigenous. A total of 1,722 child-months of observation were analyzed (mean/child = 8.58, 95% CI 8.18-9.0). The incidence of ARIwC was 24.8/100 child-months at risk (95% CI 22.3-27.5). Twenty-one children (10.5%) experienced recurrent ARIwC. Chronic cough was identified in 70/272 (25.7%) episodes of ARIwC. Predictors of recurrent ARIwC were presence of eczema, mold in the house, parent/carer employment status, and having an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mother/non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander father (compared to both parents being Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander). Predictors of chronic cough included being aged <12 months, eczema, childcare attendance, previous history of cough of >4 weeks duration, having an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mother/non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander father (compared to both parents being Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander), and a low income. Of those with chronic cough reviewed by a pediatric pulmonologist, a significant underlying disorder was found in 14 children (obstructive sleep apnea = 1, bronchiectasis = 2, pneumonia = 2, asthma = 3, tracheomalacia = 6).

DISCUSSION

This community of predominantly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and socially disadvantaged children bear a considerable burden of ARIwC. One in 10 children will experience more than three episodes over a 12-month period and 1 in five children will develop chronic cough post ARIwC, some with a serious underlying disorder. Further larger studies that include a broader population base are needed.

Codeine versus placebo for chronic cough in children

BACKGROUND

Cough in children is a commonly experienced symptom that is associated with increased health service utilisation and burden to parents. The presence of chronic (equal to or more than four weeks) cough in children may indicate a serious underlying condition such as inhaled foreign body or bronchiectasis. Codeine (and derivative)-based medications are sometimes used to treat cough due to their antitussive properties. However, there are inherent risks associated with the use of these medications such as respiratory drive suppression, anaesthetic-induced anaphylaxis, and addiction. Metabolic response and dosage variability place children at increased risk of experiencing such side effects. A systematic review evaluating the quality of the available literature would be useful to inform management practices.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of codeine (and derivatives) in the treatment of chronic cough in children.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Airways Group Register of Trials, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE (1946 to 8 June 2016), EMBASE (1974 to 8 June 2016), the online trials registries of the World Health Organization and ClinicalTrials.gov, and the bibliographic references of publications. We imposed no language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We considered studies eligible for analysis when: the participant population included children aged less than 18 years with chronic cough (duration equal to or more than four weeks at the time of intervention); and the study design evaluated codeine or codeine-based derivatives against placebo through a randomised controlled trial.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened the search results to determine eligibility against a standardised criteria, and we had a pre-planned method for analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified a total of 556 records, of which 486 records were excluded on the basis of title and abstract. We retrieved the remaining 70 references in full to determine eligibility. No studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria of this review, and thus we found no evidence to support or oppose the use of codeine or derivatives as antitussive agents for chronic cough in children.While chronic cough is not the same as acute cough, systematic reviews on the use of codeine efficacy for acute cough in children conclude an overall lack of evidence to support or oppose the use of over-the-counter cough and cold medications containing codeine (or derivatives) for treatment of acute cough in children. The lack of sufficient evidence to support the use of these medications has been consistently reaffirmed by medical experts in international chronic cough guidelines and by governing medical and pharmaceutical authorities in the USA, Europe, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Due to the lack of sufficient evidence to support efficacy, and the known risks associated with use - in particular the increased risks for children - these medications are now not recommended for children less than 12 years of age and children between 12 to 18 years with respiratory conditions.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review has highlighted the absence of any randomised controlled trials evaluating codeine-based medications in the treatment of childhood chronic cough. Given the potential adverse events of respiratory suppression and opioid toxicity, national therapeutic regulatory authorities recommend the contraindication of access to codeine in children less than 12 years of age. We suggest that clinical practice adhere to clinical practice guidelines and thus refrain from using codeine or its derivatives to treat cough in children. Aetiological-based management practices continue to be advocated for children with chronic cough.

Protracted bacterial bronchitis: The last decade and the road ahead

Cough is the single most common reason for primary care physician visits and, when chronic, a frequent indication for specialist referrals. In children, a chronic cough (>4 weeks) is associated with increased morbidity and reduced quality of life. One common cause of childhood chronic cough is protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB), especially in children aged <6 years. PBB is characterized by a chronic wet or productive cough without signs of an alternative cause and responds to 2 weeks of appropriate antibiotics, such as amoxicillin-clavulanate. Most children with PBB are unable to expectorate sputum. If bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage are performed, evidence of bronchitis and purulent endobronchial secretions are seen. Bronchoalveolar lavage specimens typically reveal marked neutrophil infiltration and culture large numbers of respiratory bacterial pathogens, especially Haemophilus influenzae. Although regarded as having a good prognosis, recurrences are common and if these are frequent or do not respond to antibiotic treatments of up to 4-weeks duration, the child should be investigated for other causes of chronic wet cough, such as bronchiectasis. The contribution of airway malacia and pathobiologic mechanisms of PBB remain uncertain and, other than reduced alveolar phagocytosis, evidence of systemic, or local immune deficiency is lacking. Instead, pulmonary defenses show activated innate immunity and increased gene expression of the interleukin-1β signalling pathway. Whether these changes in local inflammatory responses are cause or effect remains to be determined. It is likely that PBB and bronchiectasis are at the opposite ends of the same disease spectrum, so children with chronic wet cough require close monitoring.

Children With Chronic Wet or Productive Cough--Treatment and Investigations: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Systematic reviews were conducted to examine two related key questions (KQs) in children with chronic (> 4 weeks' duration) wet or productive cough not related to bronchiectasis: KQ1-How effective are antibiotics in improving the resolution of cough? If so, what antibiotic should be used and for how long? KQ2-When should they be referred for further investigations?

METHODS

The systematic reviews were undertaken based on the protocol established by selected members of the CHEST expert cough panel. Two authors screened searches and selected and extracted data. The study included systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort (prospective and retrospective) studies, and cross-sectional studies published in English.

RESULTS

Data were presented in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flowcharts, and the summaries were tabulated. Fifteen studies were included in KQ1 (three systematic reviews, three RCTs, five prospective studies, and four retrospective studies) and 17 in KQ2 (one RCT, 11 prospective studies, and five retrospective studies). Combining data from the RCTs (KQ1), the number needed to treat for benefit was 3 (95% CI, 2.0-4.3) in achieving cough resolution. In general, findings from prospective and retrospective studies were consistent, but there were minor variations.

CONCLUSIONS

There is high-quality evidence that in children aged ≤ 14 years with chronic (> 4 weeks' duration) wet or productive cough, the use of appropriate antibiotics improves cough resolution. There is also high-quality evidence that when specific cough pointers (eg, digital clubbing) are present in children with wet cough, further investigations (eg, flexible bronchoscopy, chest CT scans, immunity tests) should be conducted. When the wet cough does not improve by 4 weeks of antibiotic treatment, there is moderate-quality evidence that children should be referred to a major center for further investigations to determine whether an underlying lung or other disease is present.