RISK FACTORS FOR BRONCHIOLITIS HOSPITALIZATIONS IN CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC
DISEASES
Abstract
Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis is the most
common lower respiratory tract disorder causing hospitalization in
infants. Palivizumab has shifted the profile of the hospitalized
population away from premature infants and towards those with chronic
morbidities who are not eligible for prophylaxis. Aim: To characterize
RSV bronchiolitis hospitalizations in infants with chronic diseases,
compared to otherwise healthy infants. Methods: A four consecutive RSV
season retrospective analysis of patients younger than two years
admitted with bronchiolitis. Background demographic and clinical data,
including vital sign measurements, laboratory tests, and pediatric
intensive care unit (PICU) admissions during hospitalization, were
analyzed. Results: Of 1124 hospitalizations due to RSV bronchiolitis,
244 (22%) were in infants with chronic diseases. Although 20/1124
qualified for RSV prophylaxis, only 8 had been vaccinated. Compared to
otherwise healthy infants, children with chronic diseases had longer
hospitalizations, median 4 days (IQR 4-7) vs 3 days (2-5),
p<0.001; and higher PICU and readmission rates (9% vs 4.5%,
p=0.007 and 3% vs 1%, p=0.055, respectively). Children with Down’s
syndrome comprised 2% of all hospitalizations, but 8% of PICU
admissions; their median length of hospitalization was 11 days.
Respiratory tract malformations were present in 2% of hospitalizations,
and comprised 4% of PICU admissions. Conclusion: Infants with chronic
diseases admitted with RSV bronchiolitis are prone to longer
hospitalization and PICU admission. Children with Down’s syndrome and
respiratory tract malformations may benefit from RSV prophylaxis.