A review in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) reports that asthma is the most common chronic disease in children and a major reason for admissions to hospital. However, inadequate asthma control is present in 26 percent to 45 percent of children.

The analysis includes the latest scientific information that has come out of randomized controlled trials since the Canadian Pediatric Asthma Consensus Guidelines were published in 2003. It was produced as an initiative of the Canadian Thoracic Society.

The review reveals what are the key points for distinguishing between transient asthma and chronic asthma in preschoolers. It also incorporates information on managing both types.

For children with sporadic asthma, using inhaled corticosteroids only during attacks does not appear to be efficient. Children with more severe intermittent or persistent symptoms should have regular therapy with inhaled steroids. During the viral season, treatment with leukotriene receptor antagonists may help to reduce symptoms and visits to health care providers. If children do not respond to optimal therapy, the possibility of another condition should be considered.

The authors remark that further research is required to evaluate effectiveness of treatments in young children.

"Achieving control of asthma in preschoolers"
Thomas Kovesi MD, Suzanne Schuh MD, Sheldon Spier MD, Denis B?©rub?© MD, Stuart Carr MD, Wade Watson MD, R. Andrew McIvor MD MSc
CMAJ 2009. DOI:10.1503/cmaj.071638
Canadian Medical Association Journal

Written by Stephanie Brunner (B.A.)