Abstract:

Aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate the etiology in children aged between 1 month to 3 years who had suffered at least three wheezing episodes; additionally, to compare the children having multiple-trigger wheeze accompanied with atopy with children having episodic (viral) wheeze. Patients and Methods: This study included 170 patients who had at least three wheezing episodes on condition that the first episode before the age one. To clarify the etiology of wheezing episodes, in addition to a detailed history and physical examination, complete blood count, blood eosinophils, serum immunoglobulin levels, sweat chloride test, PPD skin testing, lung X-ray, scintigraphy for gastroesophageal reflux, allergen specific IgE, allergen skin prick tests and, examination of thorax CT which was performed when required were all recorded from the hospital files of patients retrospectively.Results: With studies regarding etiology, 67 patients (39.4 %) were diagnosed as viral wheeze, 57 patients (33.5 %) multiple-trigger wheeze accompanied with atopy, 29 patients (17.1 %) gastroesophageal reflux disease and 5 % of patients with dysplasia. The age of children with viral wheeze at the first episode was younger (p=0. 013) and they had more dampness in their homes than those of children with multiple-trigger wheeze accompanied with atopy (p= 0.012). The rate of maternal asthma and family history of atopy (p=0.006 and p<0.001, respectively), as well as total IgE levels and blood eosinophils (p<0.001, for both) were found significantly higher in children with multiple-trigger wheeze accompanied with atopy in comparison to children with viral wheeze.Conclusion: To explore the etiology in children having wheezing episodes in the first three years of life is important for early treatment and prognosis. Early diagnosis and intervention of patients with multiple-trigger wheeze accompanied with atopy will prevent irreversible changes in the airway

Keywords: