Impulse oscillometry and free-running tests for diagnosing asthma and monitoring lung function in young children

BackgroundSeparating individuals with viral-induced wheezing from those asthma is challenging, and there are no guidelines for children under 6 years of age. Impulse oscillometry, however, feasible in 4-year-old children.ObjectiveTo explore the use impulse oscillometry diagnosing monitoring young evaluating treatment response to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).MethodsA total 42 (median age 5.3 years, range 4.0-7.9 years) physician-diagnosed lability were followed months after initiation ICS treatment. All performed 6-minute free-running test at 3 time points. After baseline, they attended a second visit when had achieved good control third approximately 60 days visit. A positive was defined as having greater than 19 points hyperreactivity on visit.ResultsIn total, 38 responded Exercise-induced increases resistance 5 Hz decreased (61% vs 18% 13.5%, P < .001), running distance during lengthened (800 m 850 m, = .001). Significant improvements childhood scores occurred between baseline subsequent visits (21 24 24, .001) acute physicians’ respiratory symptoms (1, (0–6) 0, (0–2), Similar profiles observed without aeroallergen sensitization among age.ConclusionImpulse useful tool lung function children.